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A River Runs Through

A River Runs Through

Inflight Magazine of Royal Airlines November/December 2009

A River Runs Through Guilin, International Cuisine Corporate & Private Functions Flight Kitchen Chinese Cuisine Tel: 233 9207 / 233 1853 Outside Catering Tel: 233 8240 / 233 1853 Tel: 233 1927/8/9 Tel: 243 0185/6 Fax: 233 0183 Fax: 233 0183 Fax: 233 2691 Fax: 243 0183 Hospital Catering Tel: 222 1915 Fax: 222 1916

International Cuisine Chinese Restaurant Open Air Dining Tel: 233 4189 / 233 4197 Tel: 242 2291/2/3 at Hua Ho Manggis Tel: 233 4189 / 233 4197 Fax: 234 5672 Fax: 243 0183 Tel: 233 2880 / 233 2881 Fax: 234 5672 Fax: 233 2886

Function Rooms Cafe & Cake Shop - Tel: 233 9206, Tutong - Tel: 422 2082 Tel: 233 1927/8/9 Tel: 233 4189 / 233 4197 Tel: 242 2291/2/3 Sg.Tilong - Tel: 233 7777 (Delivery Services) Fax: 233 2691 Fax: 234 5672 Fax: 243 0183 - Tel: 223 7253 Cafe & Cake Shop - Tel: 233 3636

Tel: 233 1927/8/9 Tel: 233 9207 / 233 1853 Airport - Tel: 233 9200 / 233 1927/8/9 Tel: 234 3802 Fax: 233 2691 Fax: 233 2691 RBRC - Tel: 233 4193 Sg. Tilong - Tel: 234 3232 MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1 110/21/090/21/09 3:13:323:13:32 PMPM November/December 2009

Cover image: A fi sherman plies the Li River in Guilin, China at sunset by Corbis. Contents ESCAPADE 10 Noosa by the Sea Seaside Sojourns in Queensland, .

COMPASS 16 A River Runs Through Nature’s Park in Guilin, China. 22 Bay of the Somme A Piece of Paradise in France.

BEST OF BRUNEI 26 Unveiling Brunei’s Underwater Wonder Marine Marvels in Brunei Darussalam.

BY WORD OF MOUTH 10 34 The Conscious Closet Ethical and Fashionable.

TASTEBUDS 40 Food Fabulous Royal Brunei Catering’s Food Fiesta.

TAKE 5 46 Hot for Uncle Ho’s City If you have just 24 hours...

MOTORING 48 Might of the Mercedes Mercedes C230 Avantgarde.

IN STYLE 52 His World Moody Metal Mantle. 54 Her World 34 Wishlist 2009. 52 2 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2 110/21/090/21/09 3:13:573:13:57 PMPM Editorial board Advisor Royal Brunei Airlines Vice President Corporate Communications Anne Aziz Parker Editorial Committee Russell Knox, Dian Idris Editorial & production team General Manager Jacqueline W M Wong Editor R. Rajendra Deputy Editor Anis Ramli Studio Manager Ken Lau Senior Digital Media Designer Kan Seak Hong Graphic Designers Law Siew Lee, Leivy Teo Coordinator Sa’adiah Hj Abas Publishing & sales Digital Impressions Lot 20010, Taman Alam, Jalan , , Gadong BE1118 P. O. Box 577, BS8671, Brunei Darussalam Tel: +673 2654 851 Fax: +673 2650 276 E-mail: [email protected] www.digital-impressions.org Advertising enquiries in Brunei 56 Digital Impressions Lot 20010, Taman Alam, Jalan Telanai, Beribi, Gadong BE1118 Bandar Seri Begawan BS8671, Brunei Darussalam Tel: +673 2654 851 IN PERSON Fax: +673 2650 276 56 Call of the East E-mail: [email protected] Celebrity Chef Bobby Chinn. www.digital-impressions.org Printer Superior Press Sdn. Bhd.,

BRUNEI BECKONS Colour separation 58 Abode of Peace Digital Impressions Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia 60 A Wealth of Diversity Media representatives • AUSTRIA Publimedia GmbH, Tel: (43) 1 211 53 61, Fax: (43) 1 21 21 602, E-mail: [email protected]• AUSTRALIA Mass Media Publicitas, Tel: (61) 2 9252 3476, Fax: (61) 2 9251 3726, E-mail: [email protected] ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES • CANADA Mc Gown/ INTERMAC - Publicitas, Tel: (514) 7355191, Fax: (514) 3429406, E-mail: [email protected] • CHINA Emphasis (CHINA), 06 Selamat Datang Tel: (86)10 64019190 619, Fax: (86)10 64014 756, E-mail: [email protected] • FRANCE Publicitas S.A., Tel: (33) 1 53 64 88 76, Fax: (33) 1 45 00 94 81, 08 Inside RBA E-mail: [email protected] • GERMANY Publicitas Germany GmbH, 62 Story of Growth Tel: (49) 89 921 06 10, Fax: (49) 89 921 06 30, E-mail: ppn-@publicitas.com • Emphasis Media Limited, Tel: (852) 2516 1000, Fax: (852) 2561 3349, 64 Comfort Onboard Email: [email protected] • ITALY Siper Media SpA, Tel: (39) 027 6007743, Fax: (39) 027 6006836, E-mail: [email protected] • Mediascope Publicitas, 65 Route Map Tel: (91) 22 2204 8890, Fax: (91) 2282 4889, E-mail: [email protected] • PT Medianet Intisarana, Tel: (62) 21 798 7314, Fax: (62) 21 798 7316, 66 Destinations Guide E-mail: [email protected] • Nakayama Media International, Inc., Tel: (813) 3479 6131, Fax: (813) 3479 6130, E-mail: [email protected] • KOREA DooBee Inc., Tel: (82) 23702 1742, (82) 23702 1777, E-mail: [email protected] • MALAYSIA Publicitas International Sdn Bhd, Tel: (603) 7729 6923, REGULARS Fax: (603) 7729 7115, E-mail: [email protected] • Integrated Advertising Services FZ LLC, Tel: (971) 4 391 3360, E-mail: [email protected] 04 CEO’s Message • Media South (P) Ltd., Tel: (977) 1442 0848, Fax: (977) 1442 1179, 68 Traveller’s Guide E-mail: [email protected] • Adrefl ex International, Tel: (632) 638 8374, Fax: (977) 1442 1179, E-mail: clang-garcia@adrefl exintl.com 69 Muslim Prayer Times • SPAIN Publicitas Internacional, S.A., Tel: (34) 91 323 79 18, Fax: (34) 91 323 79 23, E-mail: [email protected] • Emphasis (SINGAPORE), 70 Travel Diary Tel: (65) 6735 8681, Fax: (65) 6733 5681, E-mail: [email protected] • SOUTH AFRICA International Media Representatives (PTY ) LTD, 72 Mind Teasers Tel: (27) 11 258 4250, Fax: (27) 11 258 4043, E-mail: [email protected] • SWEDEN Publicitas Nordic AB, Tel: (46) 8 442 7050, Fax: (46) 8 442 7059, E-mail: [email protected] • SWITZERLAND Triservice S.A., Tel: (41) 22 796 46 26, Fax: (41) 22 797 02 70, E-mail: [email protected] • Thai Representation Limited, Tel: (662) 332 0503-4, Fax: (662) 331 9303, E-mail: [email protected] • Emphasis (Taiwan), Tel: (886) 2 2764 5011, Fax: (886) 22760 8439, E-mail: [email protected] • The Powers Turner Group, Tel: (44) 207 592 8333, Fax: (44) 207 592 8301, E-mail: [email protected] • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Publicitas North America, Tel: (1) 312/201 9393, Fax: (1) 312/201 0449, E-mail: [email protected]

Muhibah is published bi-monthly in Brunei Darussalam by the Publications Unit of Royal Brunei Airlines Sdn. Bhd. All rights reserved. Copyright by Royal Brunei Airlines. Unsolicited materials will be returned only if accompanied by a self-addressed envelope and suffi cient return postage. While every reasonable care is taken by the editor, no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. The contents of this magazine are entirely the personal views of the author(s) and/or contributors and do not in any way refl ect the views or opinions of the publisher. The publisher disclaims all and any liability to any person arising from the printing, sale or use of the materials in this magazine. The Editorial team reserves the right to edit and/or rewrite all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage. Muhibah is complimentary for passengers on Royal Brunei Airlines. It is also available on subscription at BND7 per 70 copy, excluding postage. Muhibah 3

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3 110/21/090/21/09 3:14:053:14:05 PMPM On Time Performance needs team work, from left to right, Muhammad Fadillah Hj Rosli (Engineering), Siti Azrenawaty Hj Johari (Passenger & Ground Services), Robert Yang (CEO), Capt. John Walker (Flight Operations) and Irwati Abdul Gafur (Cabin Crew). CEO’s Message

Welcome onboard Royal Brunei Airlines. In the Escapade section of this magazine, we explore Noosa in Queensland, Australia. Awarded The year has passed so quickly that it becomes Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO (the global surreal as I write this note and preamble my message organisation which gives out World Heritage listings), with Seasons Greetings. I sincerely hope that Noosa is recognised for its sustainable approach to Christmas and New Year bring joy, love and peace managing the natural environment and development. to us all. With tropical rainforest and beautiful sandy beaches, Noosa presents a great hideaway. Royal Brunei Airlines is entering an exciting time of its history – with an expansion plan for its network. The Best of Brunei and Compass sections, unveil With the launch of an enhanced Winter schedule the Underwater Wonder of with stunning that starts from 25 October, 2009, we offer our marine life to Bay of the Somme, known for its eco- passengers additional fl ights to Singapore, friendly tourism. I hope that these places will inspire and . An increase to fi ve times weekly to you to travel more with Royal Brunei Airlines. will provide our passengers more options to connect from North Asia to the Middle East, We strive to improve our services and be your carrier especially during this Haj season. of choice. Thank you for choosing Royal Brunei Airlines. I do appreciate the feedback we receive On the operations front, I am particularly proud of our from our guests onboard. As we head for the New On Time Performance with marked high performance Year and implement our expansion plans, I look on punctuality. Royal Brunei Airlines rates above forward to share more exciting news with you in the average in the Asia Pacifi c Airlines Association months ahead. In the meantime, enjoy your fl ight (AAPA). On that note, I take this opportunity to and Seasons Greetings. congratulate my team in operations and fl ight crew who worked hard behind the scenes to ensure the continuation of On Time Performance, safety and a With warm wishes, high standard of customer service. It is a great result Robert Yang which we will always work hard to improve on. CEO

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4 110/26/090/26/09 10:35:0110:35:01 AMAM MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5 110/21/090/21/09 3:14:353:14:35 PMPM ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES Selamat Datang Selamat Datang means ‘Welcome’ in Malay. Please spare a few moments to read about the features of our aircraft as you start your journey with Royal Brunei Airlines.

Safety features The new regulations make an exception for medicines and Before take-off, our cabin crew will demonstrate the dietary supplements needed during a fl ight, including baby safety procedures. More information may be found in the food. Proof of need may be required. illustrated safety card in the seat pocket in front of you. During take-off, your seatbelt must be fastened. Wear Hand luggage your seatbelt whenever you are seated as a precaution You may store your hand luggage in the overhead lockers against air turbulence. Upon landing, please remain or under the seat in front of you. Please do not hesitate seated until our aircraft comes to a complete stop. to ask our cabin crew for help in stowing your luggage properly. Be careful when opening the overhead luggage Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAG) compartments, as items dislodged by aircraft movement restrictions may fall on you or fellow passengers. Security regulations at many that Royal Brunei Airlines now fl y to limit the amount of liquids, Cuisine aerosols and gels that can be taken through the We offer Western and Oriental meals. If you are on a security screening point. Passengers transiting through special diet or require vegetarian meals, child or baby airports and carrying any liquids, pastes and gels in food, please inform us when making your fl ight reservation containers over 100ml may be asked to dispose of or two weeks prior to departure date. the items at security checkpoints. passengers on long-haul fl ights can now These restrictions may affect your ability to carry select the meals they desire at a time that suits them. duty-free purchases onboard the aircraft. Customers ‘Dine upon Request’ is available throughout the fl ight up are advised to check with duty free personnel before until 90 minutes before landing. making their purchases. Fitness tips The hand-carry baggage restrictions at Brunei You can ease discomfort caused by pressure on your International Airport are as follows: ears during take-off, landing or changes in altitude by • All liquids, aerosols and gels must be carried in yawning, swallowing, pinching your nose gently while containers of no greater than 100ml/3.3oz capacity exhaling or by sucking on a candy. On long fl ights, drink (approximately 100gm in weight). plenty of water and non-alcoholic drinks to relieve the • All containers must fi t comfortably in a transparent, effects of dehydration. You can ask our cabin crew for resealable plastic bag. non-prescription pain-relief medicines. Please inform • The plastic bag must be no greater than 1 litre us when making your fl ight reservation if you have to in capacity. administer special medication, such as insulin injections • There is a limit of one plastic bag per passenger. to yourself during the fl ight. For further information on • The plastic bag must be removed from carry on infl ight health, please turn to page 64. baggage and presented to security personnel at the checkpoint for inspection and separate Aerial route video x-ray screening. A special feature of our B767 aircraft is the aerial route • Containers larger than 100ml/3.3oz will not be video display, which indicates our geographical position, accepted, even if only partially full. direction, altitude and speed.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6 110/21/090/21/09 3:14:593:14:59 PMPM Infl ight entertainment Earphones will be provided for SkyShow, Royal Brunei Airlines’ infl ight video and audio entertainment system. For programme details, please refer to the SkyShow entertainment guide booklet located in the seat pocket in front of you. The sockets for the earphones and channel/volume remote control are located in your seat armrest.

Reconfi rmation For passengers travelling to and from the Middle East, please reconfi rm your departure fl ight at least 72 hours in advance with the local Royal Brunei Airlines offi ce or your travel agent. Failure to do so could result in the cancellation of your reservations. A non-reconfi rmation policy applies to RBA’s European, Australian, , Asean and the Orient routes. However, passengers are advised to contact the nearest RBA offi ce or their travel agents should they wish to cancel or change their return or onward reservations.

Online booking As an extension of Royal Brunei Airlines’ existing global sales and marketing network, customers may now choose to book their tickets online. For more information, please visit www.bruneiair.com

Duty-free shopping At the Brunei International Airport, Royal Brunei Trading runs Subject to transit time, eligible passengers* can either opt for: the Brunei Duty-Free Shops at the arrival and departure halls. • Complimentary transit tours and/or • A complimentary set meal at Royal Brunei Catering’s Check-in Coffee Garden located near 1 in the Departure Hall. Check-in counters at the Brunei International Airport are open three hours before fl ight departure. Passengers are advised to * Complimentary set meals are only available for transit passengers check in at least two hours before departure in order to allow from , , and London. for security and baggage checks. Check-in counters will be closed 45 minutes before departure, after which no boarding For those who wish to join the tours, cabin crew will passes will be issued. Royal Brunei Airlines also advises its distribute Immigration Arrival and Health forms for clearance passengers to reach the boarding gate 20 minutes before the to enter Brunei Darussalam. Kindly fi ll in the forms fl ight departs in order to avoid missing their fl ights. accordingly. Upon arrival, please contact our ground staff at the transfer desk to register for the transit programme. Use of electronic equipment Please be advised that seats are limited on the tours. Mobile phones cannot be used at any time during the fl ight. We hope you enjoy your transit in Brunei Darussalam They should be switched off as soon as the cabin crew makes before continuing your journey. the announcement. Also included in this list of equipment which cannot be used at any time once on board the aircraft are: citizen’s band (CB) radio, remote-controlled devices (such Passenger comments as radio-controlled toys), and transmitting devices that emit Your comments and suggestions will help us enhance radio frequencies. our services. Please write to: The following devices may be used on board, except during Manager, Customer Relations take-off, initial climb, approach and landing: personal computers, Passenger & Ground Services, Aircraft Operations Dept. FM receivers, calculators, electronic shavers, audio and video Royal Brunei Airlines Sdn. Bhd. recorders, hand-held computer games (e.g. Gameboy), and P. O. Box 737 playback devices. These devices can interfere with the aircraft’s Bandar Seri Begawan BS8671 electronic equipment, thus compromising aircraft safety and Brunei Darussalam endangering the lives of passengers and crew. E-mail: [email protected] Non-smoking policy Royal Brunei Airlines operates non-smoking fl ights to all WARNING! destinations. The traffi cking and illegal import of controlled drugs Alcohol-free environment policy are very serious offences in Brunei Darussalam. Royal Brunei Airlines operates alcohol-free fl ights to all The penalty for such offences is DEATH. destinations. AMARAN! Transit Tour programme Mengedar dan membawa masuk dadah terkawal A complimentary transit program is available for all our secara haram adalah kesalahan yang amat berat passengers who are on transit at Brunei International Airport di Negara Brunei Darussalam. Kesalahan for more than fi ve (5) hours. sedemikian membawa hukuman MATI.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 7 110/21/090/21/09 3:15:053:15:05 PMPM ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES Inside RBA Roundup of Royal Brunei Airlines happenings

RBA donates to Anak Yatim of RBA Royal Brunei Airlines and its subsidiary company Abacus Brunei presented cash donations to anak yatim (orphans) who had a parent working at Royal Brunei Airlines.

RBA’s Chief Executive Offi cer, Mr. Robert Yang presented the donations to the 19 children during a ceremony held at the Royal Brunei Recreational Club on 18 September, 2009. “We honour the memory of the staff who passed away whilst in the employ of RBA by helping out their children.”

The donation ceremony is an annual event that the airline holds in conjunction with the Muslim month of Ramadhan and to honour the memories of departed colleagues.

The children were also presented with gift bags containing a selection of mementos from Royal Brunei Airlines.

Special meals during Eid ul-Fitr Chicken and beef satay, nasi empit and beef rendang with sayur lodeh and lemang pulut were among the options that Royal Brunei Airlines passengers enjoyed when travelling from Brunei during the fi rst two days of Eid ul-Fitr.

Royal Brunei Airlines’ Infl ight Services section designed a special in-fl ight menu in celebration of Eid ul-Fitr. Working closely with Royal Brunei Catering, the dishes were developed for both Business and Economy Class passengers.

Hj Zainal Abidin Hj Ismail, Manager of Infl ight Services said “As the national carrier, one way that Royal Brunei Airlines RBA partners with British Council celebrates is by extending the atmosphere of festivity and As offi cial carrier for Papatuanuku Earth goodwill onboard our aircraft”. Whisperers, Royal Brunei Airlines welcomed the fi lm’s director, Kathleen Gallagher, and crew to Brunei before fl ying them to London to attend the fi lm’s European premier on RBA enhances fl ight schedule 18 September. From 25 October, 2009, Royal Brunei Airlines passengers will have more fl exibility The New Zealand and British fi lm addresses when it comes to booking fl ights as the the challenge of climate change through airline increases fl ight frequencies to stunning cinematography, highlighting the Singapore, Jakarta, Manila and Jeddah. beautiful New Zealand landscape and the special relationship New Zealanders have Singapore fl ights will operate 17 times with the land. weekly with additional day time fl ights on Monday, Friday and Sunday departing Speaking on the partnership, Anne Brunei at 1.20pm and arriving at 3.20pm. Aziz-Parker, Vice President Corporate Communications said, “At Royal Brunei Meanwhile, Manila services will increase to eight times weekly and Jakarta services Airlines we are delighted to be a part of this will increase to six times weekly. The increase in services for Jeddah from October to very important fi lm. Royal Brunei Airlines December will strengthen RBA’s positioning for Jeddah as a niche market. is dedicated to working to support the environment, sustainability, tackling climate “RBA is responding to market demand in the Region. We are focused on providing change and raising awareness of vital connectivity to our customers and the new Winter schedule allows greater fl exibility to environmental issues. We wish the project connect to Europe and the Middle East,” said Robert Yang, Chief Executive Offi cer of every success as it launches around Royal Brunei Airlines. the world”.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 8 110/26/090/26/09 10:36:2210:36:22 AMAM MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 9 110/21/090/21/09 3:15:193:15:19 PMPM ESCAPADE Noosa by the Sea With the laidback charm of Sydney and the affl uent air of Paris, Anis Ramli fi nds Noosa in Queensland, Australia, a curious mix of lifestyles that’s the perfect recipe for a glorious getaway.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1100 110/21/090/21/09 3:15:213:15:21 PMPM Right: Dining at Noosa is an experience in itself with the freshest of produce and catch from the sea. Right, below: A man-made canal meanders through the private units of Noosa Entrance Waterfront Resort, making this a charming and luxurious retreat. Opposite page: Sandy beaches dotted with white- barked, scraggly trunks await visitors to Noosa.

Like most visitors to Queensland, the idea of a vacation to this northeastern of Australia would likely include the presumption that it consists of nothing more than multiple rides at theme parks or riding the surf at Gold Coast. The branding of the Sunshine State as a thrill-seeker’s paradise has been ingrained in us so much that it has perhaps locked us in a supine state that makes further explorations unnecessary.

Yet, a 90-minute drive north from Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, will bring you to a different strip of the Sunshine Coast, where the tiny village of Noosa remains one of the best kept secrets for a glorious getaway. That is, until now.

More than a costal town, Noosa began to court vacationers back in the mid 1980s with its mix of tropical microclimate, rainforest rimmed bays and sun-kissed beaches. The village is almost completely surrounded by water, and even today, a ferry-ride along the meandering Noosa River that frames the town’s inland fl anks provides spectacular sights of the town and its neighbourhood.

Speak to any local and there are always nuggets of Noosa’s delights that offer insights as to what makes locals stay and visitors return. There’s the Noosa National Park, a haven for walkers, birdwatchers and koala lovers, whose entrance via a boardwalk stroll sits a mere fi ve minutes’ walk from the town centre. To the east of the park is Alexandria Bay, where those in the know head for quiet beach time away from the maddening crowd of Main Beach.

The pulse of the town itself, Hastings Street, is a charming collection of stylish cafés, alfresco restaurants and designer boutiques that have a distinct European fl air to them. Perhaps it’s the way the cafés turn their chairs on the terraces to face the street, making them très chic. The leafy boulevard itself provides a charming, all-season stroll, with many opportune spots to browse, explore and relax.

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Left: The Noosa Farmers’ Market brings together farmers who offer everything from chocolates, coffee, vegetables and dairy products. Left, below: Perched on the Noosa River, Wasabi provides both a stunning view and a delectable menu. Opposite page, top: There are many stylish boutiques and specialist shops in Noosa. Opposite page, below: A stroll along the tree-lined Hastings Street is a delight in any season to soak in the cool, continental ambience of the town.

At the end of the street is Main Beach, whose calm waters are a favourite with kayakers. Stay awhile on the beach and you may even see pods of bottlenose dolphins from the coastal track. Further ahead is Noosa Woods, a dedicated ground that hosts summer concerts and winter festivals, with picnic and barbeque spots. Noosa’s many bays also provide some of the best point breaks in Australia. Every March, surfers world over take part in the annual Festival of Surfi ng, riding the waves from Granite Bay at the Noosa National Park into Main Beach.

For all that Noosa has going for it, it could have well followed in the footsteps of Gold Coast’s frenzied pace; sullen skyscrapers jostling for the best views, simultaneously changing the once magical coastline into a dreary concrete coast. In fact, Noosa almost experienced a similar fate. Plans were underway in the mid 1980s for a massive development project next to the Great Sandy National Park that included a 600-room hotel, two resorts, a 27-hole golf course, an artifi cial lake, a marina and an airport.

The plans were scrapped upon pressure from a group of local environmentalists. Today, Noosa’s buildings are no higher than the tree line. Even the shops at Hastings Street demonstrate a certain class. In place of mass two-dollar, thrift shops that are the leitmotif of any tourist spot, there are signature stores and international brands. There’s not even a whiff from fast food outlets that to this day, remain fi rmly out of the area, relegated to adjoining neighbourhoods, such as Noosa Junction and Noosaville.

That isn’t to say there aren’t options to suit all budgets. On the contrary, whether it’s latte for breakfast by the beach or fi sh-and-chips on the run for lunch, dining at Noosa is one of the trip’s best pleasures. Restaurants serve fresh seasonal produce farmed from the hinterlands and seafood sourced from the surrounding waters. Local cuisine often mix with Asian and European infl uences, creating a potpourri of fl avours that has earned Noosa the reputation of Queensland’s epicurean capital. Dining alfresco at the restaurants on Hastings Street is one of Noosa’s most memorable experiences.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1122 110/21/090/21/09 3:15:473:15:47 PMPM For a new take on dining, catch the Noosa Ferry from the Sheraton Jetty near Hastings to dine at Wasabi Restaurant and Bar on Noosa Sound. Perched on the Noosa River, Wasabi’s award-winning menu is matched only by the stunning scenery. Chef Shinichi Maeda creates fresh sashimi platter from local Mooloolaba yellowfi n tuna and Tasmanian ocean trout, and presents tantalising fusion meals such as wagyu beef with sesame dressing and potato salad.

Choosing where to stay in Noosa is also a delight. There are discreet boutique accommodations and 5-start luxury hotels with drop dead views of the waters. Or, opt for self-contained holiday fl ats and family apartments that provide for longer-staying guests. One fi ne example is the Noosa Entrance Waterfront Resort, a cluster of luxury apartments that hug a manmade canal. It’s located in the quiet neighbourhood of Noosaville, yet Noosa’s charm is undeniable in its landscaping. Four private jetties provide the perfect waterfront dwelling for boat owners, or you can hire kayaks that will take you straight into the heart of Noosa River. The self-contained apartments have lounge decks for barbeques and with four pools to choose from amid

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1133 110/21/090/21/09 3:15:573:15:57 PMPM ESCAPADE

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1144 110/21/090/21/09 3:16:013:16:01 PMPM a tropical garden setting. Yet, despite its seclusion, development. For that, Noosa was recently awarded Above: Self-drive holidays along the coastal and highland the resort is just a short drive away to the famous the Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO, the routes of Noosa allow a glimps Hastings Street, and the Sunday Noosa Farmers’ global organisation that also awards World Heritage of the vistas that make up the Market on the grounds of the Aussie Rules Football. Listings. In recognising Noosa’s sustainable approach Queensland landscape. Opposite page: The beaches You can purchase local produce, fruits, cheese, to managing the natural environment, which includes in Noosa is a romantic spot yoghurt and good coffee to bring back to a ban on high rise buildings and a population cap, for couples to bask in the the apartment. Noosa will continue to be the best accidental stunning sunset. discovery for vacationers this side of Queensland. Noosa’s natural setting courts well-heeled Australians and global guests to its seaside village as the perfect Royal Brunei Airlines fl ights to Brisbane operate daily from holiday getaway. It charms visitors with its success in Bandar Seri Begawan and four times weekly from Auckland. maintaining the delicate balance between nature and Images courtesy of Tourism Queensland.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1155 110/21/090/21/09 3:16:163:16:16 PMPM COMPASS A River Runs Through Amidst the super cities that dot China, the idyllic beauty of Guilin in Southern China with its karst mountains and ancient waterways, presents a landscape and a lifestyle that seems literally frozen in time. Words & photographs by Mark Parren Taylor.

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Above: A formation There’s a Chinese saying that an impressive view The out-of-this-world rock formations and stretched, drum team practices on Binjiang Lu by the Li must be heard rather than seen, suggesting that even towering hills have been treasured for so long, that River in central Guilin. the loveliest landscape cannot compete with the it was probably a national park long before the Opposite page: A beauty of a vista imagined through another person’s concept existed. To this day it is surprisingly unspoilt. lone fi sherman takes a breather oboard his boat words. Guilin is the exception that proves that rule: As a Shanghainese friend of mine frequently likes to on the Li River. The Chinese are universally proud of the Li River tease, “China would be beautiful if it wasn’t for the Preceding page: Cruises along the Li panorama and the mythical mountains that rise along Chinese!” From his viewpoint, amidst the skyscrapers River from Guilin to the edges of the water. To a true connoisseur of all and shopping malls of Shanghai, it may be hard to Yangshuo pass the most things legendary from China, the River Li and the imagine an environment untouched by the last two spectacular scenery that has remained untouched ethereal landscape of Guilin share the same position centuries, but take a trip along the Li River and you’ll for centuries. alongside other oft-quoted, must-see sights of the witness a landscape as pristine as any. Great Wall and Hangzhou’s West Lake. Despite appearances however, climate change is Guilin was recently crowned as China’s ‘Number One starting to take its toll on this countryside: The rainy City Destination’. China’s Xinhua News Agency ran season sees fl ooding with strong and damaging a brief article, but there wasn’t much in it that could currents; the winter months herald a drought that have surprised the reader. The Chinese have known gets longer every year. In January and February, the for centuries how magnifi cent Guilin’s Li River is. Of Li River can be so shallow, it is not navigable in parts. course, it is a modern phenomenon that so many And those sections that are, test tourist boat captains tourists from China and around the globe are able to to the limit. visit the city – about 12 million last year – but painters and poets, emperors and engineers have been visiting Guilin, founded over 2,000 years. Yearning to drink in the lush beauty of Guilin, I

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 1188 110/21/090/21/09 3:16:323:16:32 PMPM decided to take a trip on one of the cruisers that The Li River fi nds its fl ow in the Mao’er Mountains head out from the docks for a short ride south of to the north of Guilin and then heads 437 Guilin. During the entire journey, I was unable to kilometres south to join the Xijiang, the western leave the viewing deck, as I was awestruck by the tributary of the Pearl River. But it is the 80 romantic landscape slipping past. If the clarity of kilometres stretch between Guilin and Yangshuo the water was an arresting sight, ducks bobbing that is the true source of national pride. The Li about and tipping under to poke at stones on fl ows past majestic rock formations and groves the riverbed and among the deep green weeds, of billowing, feathery bamboo that crowd the added a pastoral charm to the already sylvan banks. Beyond, many peaks are thick with forest. surroundings. These tourist boats needed only Look closely and some hillsides are newly planted a shallow draught but nonetheless, mine made with telltale regular rows of conifers. This is a surprising manoeuvres to remain in deep-enough recent move to replace lost forest coverage that water and still, there was the occasional dull has occurred steadily since the 1950s. With the scrape as the hull kissed the rocks. aim of stemming ruinous soil erosion and more importantly, to lessen the seasonal swing between fl ood and drought, the banks of the Li are slowly but steadily pulling on a green mantle.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2200 110/21/090/21/09 3:16:553:16:55 PMPM Fortunately, visitor numbers haven’t followed the soybean. Perhaps above all, the breakfast noodle Above: The Ancient South Gate is a popular venue same pattern as the local water table. Naturally, mi fen that seems to be universally slurped in the for couples to immortalise summer is the high season but winter draws its fair morning, is the defi ning local dish. their nuptials. share of visitors. Authorities are concerned that if key Above, left: Guilin’s specialities include Li River attractions, such as the river cruises, are adversely Yanghsuo, at the other end of the famous stretch carp in a hearty lajiaojiang affected by low water, this may deter people from of Li River, is even more tightly squeezed by sauce of chilli, garlic and fermented soybean. taking their winter break in Guilin. encroaching limestone peaks and has retained an Opposite page: Life old town atmosphere, with its winding lanes and in Guilin continues to Undoubtedly, the Li River is central to Guilin’s higgledy-piggledy shops. At the end of the afternoon, reverbrate to a laidback tune where produce are character. At dawn, along the waterfront close to residents bring tables and chairs onto the streets still brought to the market Fubo Shan, fi shermen set out trays of catch and and play cards, eat or knit and natter about the on foot. later in the day, old men head out onto the waters day’s events. The sun disappears quickly behind with their cormorants to catch fi sh. It’s not done for the karsts but the gentle evening air catches its rays tourists. There’s no fanfare or photo opportunity. It’s and casts a luscious glow between the mountains simply a chance for these men to get some exercise, and along the busy streets. This is the true magic of while their time and either supplement the food on the Guilin landscape. A common phrase throughout their tables or the money in their pockets. China is Guilin shan shui ja tian xia meaning ‘Guilin’s mountains and waters are the best under all heaven’ Visitors are as keen to sample local recipes and and as evening approaches there’s no place I’d ingredients as to see the big rocks and diving birds. rather be ‘under all heaven’. Guilin’s specialities include Li River carp and snails, taro from nearby Lipu, osmanthus tea and a hearty Royal Brunei Airlines operates daily fl ights to Hong Kong, lajiaojiang sauce of chilli, garlic and fermented where there are connecting fl ights to Guilin.

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BAYooff thethe SOMME A member of the ‘Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World’, Bay of the Somme is also big on eco-friendly tourism and Zero Carbon Emission policies. That explains why wildlife, artists and tourists keep returning to this spot along the English Channel in Northern France. Words & photographs by John Brunton.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2222 110/21/090/21/09 3:18:333:18:33 PMPM The Somme usually conjures up sombre images of World War One battles and memorial graveyards but this little-known corner of Northern France is worth discovering for a very different reason. A narrow road from the grand cathedral town of Abbeville accompanies the meandering river Somme towards the Channel. As the sea suddenly comes into view and the river dramatically widens out into its estuary, there is a spectacular change in the landscape. This is what the ; one of the most beautiful and well preserved natural bays in France.

You are immediately confronted by the breathtaking landscape whose form and colours change with the tide, invaded by the sea at high tide, abandoned at low tide, and transformed into undulating grassy dunes, rivulets and swirling eddies. At high tide, dozens of colourful sautrelliers or ‘toy-like shrimpers’ navigate tricky channels to sail out to sea, while kayaks and canoes head in the other direction to explore the farthest corners of the pristine wetlands. When the tide goes out, fi shermen come out to dig the sand for clams, duck hunters trek out to their hides, shepherds lead out sheep to graze on the salty grass, and thousands of migrating birds fl it back and forth, because the bay is one of the major migratory crossroads of Europe. This spot is also where William the Conqueror hid his fl eet before sailing over to England for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, and today, remains a hidden natural paradise that is unspoilt, undeveloped and still undiscovered.

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Above: The view of the main The Somme’s bay stretches round for 14 kilometres thorough fare at St Valery. Right: Signage at a local and on each side is a markedly different seaside fi shmonger in St Valery where resort. Saint Valery-sur-Somme is very much a plates of seafood – plateau de fruits de mer – can be purchased picture-postcard village, with fi shing and sailing boats for picnics and takeaways. bobbing in the port, imposing medieval ramparts Preceding page, left: Visitors with an opulent Gothic church, and a long waterside go horseriding while enjoying the sunset during the bay’s low tide. boardwalk lined with sumptuous 19th century villas Preceding page, right: The that have been artistic retreats for the likes of Victor Zen-like Le Bruit de L’eau B&B Hugo, Jules Verne, Albert Sisley and Edgar Degas. offers Zero Carbon emission activities such as kayaking in its pristine settings. With travellers from all around the world becoming more aware of their carbon footprint and enthusiastic to embrace ideas that create a more sustainable form of tourism, the local inhabitants of this eco-friendly region have made an important initiative to promote a host of Zero Carbon activities. Obviously people will have to travel here by some means or other but the idea is that when visitors are settled down in their hotel or charming Bed & Breakfast, they can then spend the rest of the vacation in an endless variety of outdoor pursuits that burn little or no carbon fuel.

The equestrian centre Cavalcade in Le Crotoy organises romantic sunset horse riding along the water’s edge at the Bay’s low tide. Visitors can rent a bike for the day and trek out to the lighthouse at La Pointe du Hourdel, at the outer point of the bay with amazing panoramic views. Follow next, a magical path along the wild sand dunes, as far as the old-fashioned seaside town of Cayeux, where the beach promenade is marked by charming, brightly-coloured, wooden

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2244 110/21/090/21/09 3:18:483:18:48 PMPM bathing cabins that haven’t changed since the 19th Eating out is a big attraction in Le Crotoy, especially Above: The fairytale- inspired 19th century Hotel century. For those who stay in the chic designer B&B if you reserve at the homely Auberge de la Marine. Les Tourelles in Le Crotoy. Velocipede, free use of a bike is even included in the It looks like a simple bistro but the chefs create Top, left: A scrumptuous room rate! For the more adventurous, when the tide wonderful cuisine and only use products sourced dessert spread at the boutique B&B Velocipede is high, the bay is perfect for exploring by kayak. from the bay. Depending on the night’s fi shing, in Cayeau. you could order a grilled sole, tasty mackerel fi llets Saint Valery is the best place to base yourself for marinated in vinegar and onions, or a hearty fi sh and exploring, with a wide range of accommodation, and seafood stew served with crunchy salicornes. at low tide, the most unforgettable experience of joining a nature walk that takes you right across to Anyone interested in wildlife shouldn’t leave before the bay’s other resort, Le Crotoy. Although the bay visiting Le Parc du Marquenterre, a 220-hectare looks deceptively fl at, be prepared for a strenuous protected park of wind-swept dunes that begins three-hour trek. The guides kit everyone out in just as the bay peters out past Le Crotoy. This is a Wellington boots, and these are very necessary as temporary home for thousands of migratory birds you start clambering through gulleys and up steep – more than 300 species – that stop off here between grassy mini-cliffs, known as micro falaises, often Russia, Africa and the Arctic. For those up for sinking into thick cloying mud. All the time the guide another nature trek, there is a fascinating 7-kilometre points out different birds fl ying above, nesting on marked walk through the park. higher ground, or just digging their beaks into the sand in search of worms. Growing wild in the sand The list of activities available at La Baie de Somme is are delicious, edible sea-ferns or salicornes, which almost endless, but visitors to this northern reaches can be eaten raw or pickled. of France return home knowing that they leave the Bay in its pristine state, so that it will continue not Arriving at Le Crotoy, the view is dominated by a 19th only attracting wildlife and the occasional invading century hotel looking out over the bay. Called Les forces to its shore, but remains as one of the world’s Tourelles, this is a stylish place to stay, looking more foremost eco-friendly destinations. like a fashionable holiday retreat at the Hamptons on Long Island rather than northern France. The owners Royal Brunei Airlines fl ights to London operate daily of the hotel have created a Zero Carbon Charter for from Bandar Seri Begawan and . In London, the bay and guests are assured that carbon emission passengers can catch connecting fl ights to Paris. has been reduced to the absolute minimum. www.visit-somme.co.uk

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2255 110/21/090/21/09 3:19:003:19:00 PMPM BEST OF BRUNEI

Unveiling Brunei’s Underwater Wonder Relatively untouched, the rich and diverse marine environment of Brunei Darussalam springs forth an underwater paradise that rivals some of the best underwater habitats of the world. Words by Simon Enderby & photographs by Seok Wun Au Young and Simon Enderby

Brunei Darussalam is perhaps best known for The coastal waters and oceans of Brunei its oil rich resources but over recent years the Darussalam is teeming with amazing marine life authorities of this tiny state and players from and, the biological richness of its and its tourism industry have turned their attention marine environment is on par with some of the towards a greener resource. This new resource more renowned waters around the world. While is readily available and is well on its way to put others may have been visited once too often, Brunei on the global map that includes the Brunei’s waters remain relatively unknown and fl ora and fauna of the Bornean rainforest and, untouched, hence making it a richer playground the biologically rich waters of the ocean that for the citizens of the deep. fronts Brunei. The country has known that there was an Realising the importance of preserving the natural abundance of marine life just offshore through its landscape, a ban on unlicensed commercial developing fi shing industry. However, this is just logging has ensured the survival of Brunei’s the tip of the iceberg and refl ects just a minute rainforest, which in turn has enabled the earth section of the rich biodiversity that can be found to remain green while allowing the fl ora and in its seas, coral reefs, and near-shore fauna to fl ourish. Amazing eco-friendly tourism waters. The sheer diversity and abundance of opportunities too have sprung up, proving that marine life found here has only recently been fully you can still enjoy the earth without wiping out the realised after some of the worlds biggest names natural beauty in the name of tourism. Similarly in marine science were brought together by the and even more recently, Brunei has come to realise Brunei Fisheries Department to undertake a that another treasure trove of natural wonders is detailed study. just waiting to be explored, albeit judiciously, to benefi t the country’s long term tourism blueprint.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2277 110/21/090/21/09 3:19:153:19:15 PMPM BEST OF BRUNEI

Dr Mark Erdmann headed the survey team along molluscs identifi ed so far. It’s quite possible these with renowned tropical reef fi sh expert Dr Gerry numbers will rise even further once detailed studies of Allen, coral experts Dr Lyndon Devantier and Emre some of the samples are completed. Two new books Below: The spinecheek Turek, malacologist (sea shell expert) Markus Ruf have also been published as a result of the survey clownfi sh, or the maroon and, underwater fi lm and photography company – The Tropical Reef Fishes of Brunei by Dr Gerry Allen anemonefi sh (Premnas biaculeatus) is a species of Scubazoo Images. Over the course of two survey and The Coral Reefs of Brunei Darussalam by clownfi sh that is found in the periods totaling seven weeks, the team, supported Dr Lyndon Devantier and Emre Turek. Indo-Pacifi c from western and guided by research staff from the Brunei Indonesia to Taiwan and the Great Barrier Reef. Fisheries Department, identifi ed 34 research sites Many of the off-shore reef sites were found to have an Below, right: The for investigation, with terrain ranging from inshore extremely high bio-diverse coral cover with an intense gorgeously bright soft coral, (Dendrronephthya sp), is among mangroves to shallow patch reefs to offshore drilling mix of hard and soft corals, whilst others were rich the species divers encountered platforms. After a total of 500 manhours spent in macro critters and a wide range of nudibranchs, at Cunningham Reef. underwater, the fi nal results clearly showed that several that they haven’t seen before including one Preceding page: The nudibranch (Phidiana indica. Brunei’s marine environment rivals that of Australia’s Bornella species, which has yet to be described. This Facelinidae) uses its bright Great Barrier Reef and Indonesia’s Bunaken Marine joined a growing list of new or undescribed species of and menacing colours to warn potential predators of Park, with nearly 400 species of hard corals, over corals and fi sh as the team widened their search. its inedibility. 667 species of tropical fi sh and over 475 species of

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 2288 110/21/090/21/09 3:19:203:19:20 PMPM Along with the rich biodiversity and great underwater dark cloud of human interference. As a result, from Above: Diver documenting the reef and marine life in visibility the team was surprised to fi nd a rich mix the comprehensive survey and acknowledgement of Brunei’s ocean. of hard and soft corals, somewhat reminiscent of the fi ndings, the Brunei Fisheries Department is now the coral reefs of the Caribbean. Under normal in the process of formulating a network of Marine circumstances this abundant mixing would not occur, Protected Areas to safeguard its rich coral reefs. This as the hard corals would out-compete the soft corals highly responsible approach will in-turn guarantee the and eventually drive them out of the shallows into the long term safety of Brunei’s underwater treasures, deeper waters, where sunlight levels are lower and as well as allow those areas that have been affected hard corals fi nd it more diffi cult to grow. by man’s activities in the past to rehabilitate and rebound. With the guaranteed safety of this incredibly Unfortunately, as with all of the world’s marine bio-diverse resource and, with the growing interest environments, Brunei’s coral reefs haven’t escaped in marine tourism, especially that of scuba diving and the hand of man, as the research team identifi ed snorkeling, Brunei’s tourism industry shall now be several dive locations with evidence of fi shing able to package both its Reefs and Rainforests to encroachment. However, interestingly the numbers of both national and international visitors. fi sh were still high and on the whole, the reefs were in very good condition. There is a silver lining to this Images by www.scubazoo.com

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Menyingkap Kekayaan Samudera Tidak tersentuh sekian lama, kekayaan dan kepelbagaian alam marin Negara Brunei Brunei Darussalam menyajikan dunia bawah laut yang setanding dengan lain-lain habitat bawah laut yang terkenal seantero. Teks oleh Simon Enderby & foto oleh Seok Wun Au Young and Simon Enderby

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3300 110/21/090/21/09 3:19:363:19:36 PMPM Mungkin Negara Brunei Darussalam lebih terkenal dengan kekayaan sumber petroliam tetapi sejak kebelakangan ini, pihak berkuasa berserta penggerak-penggerak utama dalam bidang pelancongan mula memaling ke arah sumber yang lebih hijau. Sumber baru ini sedia ada dan mampu meletakkan Negara Brunei Darussalam di persada dunia berpunca daripada kekayaan dan kepelbagaiannya. Sumber semulajadi yang dimaksudkan ini terdiri daripada fauna dan fl ora hutan hujan Borneo dan alam marin yang kaya di laut Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Menyedari akan kepentingan pemeliharaan landskap semulajadi, larangan ke atas pembalakan komersil yang tidak berlesen telah memastikan kewujudan hutan hujan Negara Brunei Darussalam. Sejajar dengan itu, kesuburan bumi terus menghijau dan pelbagai fl ora dan fauna berkembang subur. Berbagai peluang pelancongan mesra alam juga kini muncul dan membuktikan bahawa keindahan bumi boleh dinikmati tanpa merosakkan alam semula jadi di sebalik nama pelancongan. Tambahan pula, Negara Brunei Darussalam meyedari akan kewujudan sebuah lagi khazanah semula jadi, yang jika diterokai secara bijak, boleh membawa pulangan yang berganda kepada rangka tindakan jangka panjang sektor pelancongan. Kawasan perairan pantai dan laut Negara Brunei Darussalam kaya dengan kehidupan marin, di mana kekayaan biologikal terumbu karang setanding dengan alam marin terkenal seantero. Tempat-tempat terkenal yang lain mungkin sering dikunjungi pelawat, manakala perairan Brunei masih terlindung dan ini menjadikannya habitat kehidupan marin yang amat kaya.

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Kesultanan ini sedia maklum akan kehadiran alam kawasan bakau pendalaman sehingga ke tapak marin yang kaya di sekitar perairannya melalui terumbu karang cetek dan pelantar cari gali. Setelah industri perikanan yang sedang membangun. lebih 500 jam berada di bawah air, keputusan akhir Namun, ini mencerminkan hanya sebahagian kecil memaparkan bahawa persekitaran marin di Negara daripada kepelbagaian yang terdapat dalam laut, Brunei Darussalam setanding dengan Terumbu terumbu karang, hutan bakau dan perairan pantai. Karang Besar di Australia dan Taman Marin Bunaken Tahap kekayaan dan kepelbagaian kehidupan marin di Indonesia. Lebih 4,000 spesis karang keras, lebih di sini hanya baru-baru ini disedari apabila beberapa 667 spesis ikan tropika dan lebih 475 spesis moluska individu terkenal dalam bidang sains marin dibawa dikenalpasti setakat ini. Kemungkinan angka ini oleh Jabatan Perikanan Brunei untuk membuat akan meningkat apabila kajian yang lebih terperinci kajian secara lebih mendalam. dijalankan. Dua naskah buku juga telah diterbitkan hasil daripada kajian ini: The Tropical Reef Fishes of Dr Mark Erdmann mengetuai pasukan penyelidikan Brunei oleh Dr Gerry Allen dan The Coral Reefs of bersama pakar ikan terumbu karang Dr Gerry Allen; Brunei Darussalam oleh Dr Lyndon Devantier dan Bawah: Udang Commensal, pakar terumbu karang Dr Lyndon Devantier dan Emre Emre Turek. Dasycaris symbiotes, Palaemonidae. Turek; ahli malakologi (pakar haiwan cengkerang) Halaman terdahulu, kiri: Markus Ruf dan pasukan perfi leman dan fotografi Kebanyakkan kawasan terumbu karang di perairan Udang Ampa Bubble Coral bawah air dari Scubazoo Images. Dalam jangkamasa pantai ternyata mempunyai kadar liputan bio- (Vir philippinensis). Halaman terdahulu, kanan: tujuh minggu bersamaan dua sessi penyelidikan, diversiti karang yang tinggi yang terdiri daripada Tumbuhan seafan serba pasukan ini dibantu Jabatan Perikanan Brunei, telah karang lembut dan keras. Tempat-tempat lain pula subur dijumpai di rangka pelantar minyak Champion di mengenalpasti 34 lokasi di perairan Brunei untuk kaya dengan kehidupan makro dan pelbagai spesis luar perairan Seria. tujuan kajian, dengan bentuk rupa bumi menganjur nudibranch, sesetengah yang sehingga kini belum

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3322 110/21/090/21/09 3:19:483:19:48 PMPM ditemui termasuk satu spesis Bornella yang belum dan secara keseluruhan, terumbu masih dalam Atas: Ikan Redbar Anthia (Pseudanthias rubrizontus dapat dijelaskan. Selari dengan penyelidikan yang keadaan yang memuaskan. Walaupun begitu, ada Serranidae). semakin giat, spesis ini disenaraikan dalam bilangan juga kebaikan yang muncul daripada gangguan Teratas: Karang laut spesis ikan dan karang yang baru ditemui. aktiviti manusia. Berdasarkan penyelidikan Acropora sp.. Atas, kiri: Karang keras komprehensif dan penyahihan maklumat yang Victoria Patches. Sejajar dengan kekayaan biodiversiti dan kadar dijumpai, Jabatan Perikanan Brunei kini dalam penglihatan bawah air yang jelas, pasukan ini teruja proses merangka satu rangkaian Kawasan Marin dengan percampuran karang keras dan lembut yang yang Terlindung untuk memelihara terumbu tidak ubah seperti apa yang terdapat di Caribbean. karang yang kaya ini. Kaedah ini akan memastikan Dalam keadaan biasa, percampuran ini tidak akan keselamatan jangka panjang khazanah bawah laut berlaku kerana karang keras akan menewaskan Negara Brunei Darussalam sambil memulihara karang lembut dan memaksa karang lembut keluar kawasan yang tercemar atau terganggu. dari perairan cetek dan ke dalam kawasan air dalam Dengan jaminan keselamatan ke atas sumber di mana cahaya matahari tidak kesampaian dan biodiversiti ini dan bertambahnya minat terhadap karang keras tidak mudah hidup. pelancongan marin, terutama sekali dalam aktiviti selaman skuba dan mensnorkel, industri Malangnya, seperti persekitaran marin dunia yang pelancongan Brunei kini boleh menyediakan pakej lain, pasukan penyelidik mendapati terumbu karang pelancongan hutan hujan dan terumbu kepada Brunei turut diancam oleh kegiatan manusia melalui pelawat dalam dan luar negara. aktiviti perikanan. Namun, jumlah ikan masih tinggi Imej daripada www.scubazoo.com

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The Conscious Closet With the growing eco-fashion movement worldwide, Anis Ramli fi nds that it’s even easier now to fl ip the fashion footprint on its head and, offers you a bagful of things that will not only look good on you, but will also be kind to Mother Earth.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3344 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:103:20:10 PMPM Linda Loudermilk The granddaughter of a couturier and a student of Shakespeare and costume design, it’s easy to see where Linda Loudermilk gets her inspiration. Named by W magazine as one of the top 20 innovators to watch and the “Vivienne Westwood of eco” by Elle magazine, Loudermilk makes turning bamboo and seaweed into high fashion a seamless affair. Loudermilk redefi nes sustainability as something alluringly sexy, fun and edgy. Her inventive style packs an iconoclastic punch from noirish suits to sculpturally sexy shift dresses to jeans cut deadly on the hip.

The Fall 09 collection features dramatic collars, ruffl ed blouses, tailored pants and fl irty minis in a fun palette of beige, black, and navy with highlights of vivid yellow and red. Loudermilk has also spearheaded the creation of a new, luxury eco™ lifestyle. She trademarked the term luxury eco™, becoming the fi rst designer to create a ‘luxury + eco’ lifestyle brand under one umbrella – all made from the sustainable fabrics that she researched and developed, targeted towards the most discerning luxury consumer.

www.lindaloudermilk.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3355 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:163:20:16 PMPM BY WORD OF MOUTH

Julie Apple Former LeSportsac designer Julianne Applegate textile industry water consumption. It also doesn’t has created her own collection of boldly patterned pollute water, reduces energy use, and slashes stuff sacks called simply JulieApple. They’re production costs. Another environmental advantage made from recycled canvas and organic hemp to the bags is that they use Repreve, a yarn from and lined with repurposed sailcloth. But what 100 percent recycled materials. Applegate’s bags makes Applegate’s range of pouches, handbags, are also made to order, a move that reduces waste. totes, and travel satchels greener than a Granny Her talent for quirky yet comely designs can be seen Smith apple is the prints, employing the distinctive through the choice of prints available, ranging from AirDye® technology to create them. This water-wise paisley butterfl ies and fl owers and a happy graffi ti alternative to conventional dyes uses 95 percent that features squirrels, sheep, and whales. less water to create prints, and up to 88 percent less water to create solid colours, compared to typical www.julieapplestore.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3366 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:363:20:36 PMPM Olsen Haus The brand that is fast gathering buzz in the fashion world, Olsen Haus, is not only environmentally friendly, but vegan as well. Yet, with all the challenges that stack up against her, founder and designer Elizabeth Olsen has succeeded in creating a collection of shoes and handbags that are both hip and modern. Olsen favours clean lines and unique patterns, designing seasonal collections in vibrant hues that convey an artistic vibe.

An active member of animal advocate organisations for over 20 years, Olsen only works with non-animal materials from factories that are personally checked for ethical practices and environmental impact. She also strives to use organic and sustainable materials whenever possible, such as organic cotton canvas, cotton prints, linen and nylons. Her ‘ultra suede’ line is made of a suede-like polyester based fabric of petrochemicals or recycled PET. Her Fall 09 collection is a warm mix of tones and styles, such as the Faith ankle-strap heel made of organic cotton canvas and ultra suede, and the Blondie ankle-high boot made of faux suede and faux patent leather. Part of Olsen Haus’ profi t benefi ts PETA, Farm Sanctuary, Greenpeace and the Theosophical Society.

www.olsenhaus.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3377 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:383:20:38 PMPM BY WORD OF MOUTH

Song Beside manufacturing with a focus on low impact materials and production methods, the -based Song is also a World Fair Trade Organisation member (WFTO) and uses a lot of hand embroidery work in its creation, helping and providing work for many low income women and artisans in remote villages throughout . Founded by French-born, Hanoi- based designer Valerie McKenzie, Song, which literally means ‘to live’ or ‘life’ in Vietnamese, was inspired by her desire to create fashion beyond collections – one that links to a way of life.

McKenzie designs clothes that are simple, fuss- free yet, pleasing to the eye. She uses modern and traditional fabrics such as bamboo fi bre, silk and hemp, combining traditional material with modern aesthetics. Choosing organic over chemically treated materials and 100 percent handmade over machine- based embroidery in all operation and production decisions, McKenzie has succeeded in making Song a staple among eco-conscious fashionistas and, was recently featured on Cameron Diaz in the green issue of 2009 June’s Vogue. Her Cruise 2010 line is almost Zen-like in appearance, with draped tank dresses in cotton bamboo and winged-sleeve A-line tunics made of organic cotton. Song now has shops in Vietnam, and Singapore, with the fi rst Australian boutique slated to open in 2010.

www.asiasongdesign.com

Payson Jewelry Payson Cooper has made it her mission to source, produce and supply ethical and fair trade jewellery through PaysonJewelry.com, an ethical luxury jeweller from the US. Even everyday business processes follow environmentally conscious guidelines: Cooper uses post-consumer recycled packaging, recycles all possible offi ce waste and uses public transportation to conduct all business. Cooper also supports small, family owned businesses with positive employment practices who display the same earth-friendly policies.

The collections are made with high karat gold and other precious metals sourced almost entirely from the recycling process. This means no additional mining, land destruction or inhumane conditions are incurred during these processes. For example, Cooper’s 18K gold contains more than 90 percent recycled precious metal. The pure 24K gold and 100 percent silver used to create the 18K gold are obtained exclusively through an environmentally conscious refi ning process. Reusing these precious metals from the jewellery trade, technology manufacturing and other sources has enabled this jeweller to design elegant pieces with a timeless grace made even more desirable with beautiful ethics.

www.paysonjewelry.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3388 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:443:20:44 PMPM MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 3399 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:563:20:56 PMPM TASTEBUDS Food Fabulous Royal Brunei Catering’s Collection of Recipes is now into its Volume 3. Following the tracks of its award-winning Volume 2, the latest edition is fi lled with even more mouth-watering recipes and tantalising images to whet your appetite.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4400 110/21/090/21/09 3:20:583:20:58 PMPM Left: Lobster Soup with Zucchini & Avocado. Above: Salmon Tataki with Horseradish Cream Cheese and Citric Fruit. Right: Triple Decker Fruity Timbale Mousse.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4411 110/21/090/21/09 3:21:103:21:10 PMPM TASTEBUDS

Above: Spicy Crabmeat Salad. Right: Thai Laksa Noodles. Opposite page: Ginger Dates Muffi ns with Caramel Sauce.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4422 110/21/090/21/09 3:21:373:21:37 PMPM Royal Brunei Catering (RBC) has taken a Two other organisations that participated in the gastronomic journey of sorts with the publication project were Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) of three cookbooks titled Collection of Recipes. which assisted in the translations, while the State The latest is Volume 3, which unites RBC with Mufti’s Offi ce verifi ed the halal status of ingredients local photographer Jerome Wong to showcase used in the cookbook. Photographer Jerome the works of the company’s culinary team. Wong further brought the cookbook to life with his photography and creative cookbook design. The latest bilingual edition comprises recipes collected and created by chefs from the various The latest edition of the cookbook surely has a RBC kitchens including The Airport Restaurant role to emulate to be better than ever, following the and Coffee Shop, Seasons Restaurant, Emperor’s footsteps of Collection of Recipes Volume 2, which Court, Dynasty Restaurant and Catering Services. won a prestigious global award at the Gourmand Response to the cookbook was overwhelming with World Cookbook Awards 2009 in Paris. RBC’s 70 out of 200 RBC chefs submitting recipes; some cookbook was chosen for the Special Awards providing multiple submissions. categories among thousands of cookbooks from 54 different countries. Royal Brunei Catering Collection The management together with Executive Sous Chef of Recipes Volume 2 won the Best Easy Recipes Barnitus Ang, who coordinated the project, admitted Book for Brunei Darussalam and Special Award of that they faced challenges in selecting the best the Jury category in the competition. recipes that epitomised creativity and offered a wide variety of fl avours and aromas, while staying true to locally sourced ingredients. Such was the creativity that surfaced with dishes such as Lamb Rack with Tahai Sauce and Kembayau Ice Cream. These innovative chefs had fun integrating the fl avours of the East and West to culinary perfection.

The cookbook series is the brainchild of RBC Acting General Manager, Haji Omar Ali Haji Mohd Daud and was brought to life by Executive Sous Chef Barnitus Ang. “It all began over one of our occasional teh tarik and kopi Tongkat Ali sessions, when Haji Omar Ali asked if I was interested in organising a cooking competition for our chefs. In fact, such an idea had been brimming in my mind for several years and his suggestion was simply timely,” Chef Ang explained of the project.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4433 110/21/090/21/09 3:21:473:21:47 PMPM TASTEBUDS

In fact, the Special Award win was unique as RBC was the only company in Brunei Darussalam to receive a global award. Immediately following the award, a Croatian magazine even approached the company with the intention of publishing the recipes and other enquiries have continued to fl ow in.

According to Haji Omar Ali, RBC has been around for decades and he recalls that RBC already had thousands of recipes at hand and that it would be meaningful to compile them. The fi rst cookbook was therefore conceptualised and was done entirely in-house with support of the Government’s Information Department for photographs, design and proofreading. Volume 2 followed soon after with the support of DBP and the State Mufti’s Offi ce. The book also contained detailed preparation methods such as how to clean seafood and meat and, types of recommended additives.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4444 110/21/090/21/09 3:21:513:21:51 PMPM Below: Sesame Chicken Salad. Opposite page, top: Bingka Kembayau. Opposite page, below: Deep Fried Ice Cream Kembayau. Malay-style Chicken Wings

The international success of Volume 2 indicates that these cookbooks are indeed world-class publications. According to Haji Omar Ali, the success of the cookbook and the teamwork of everyone involved in the project lives up to His Majesty Haji Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s call for public-private partnerships in stimulating growth and progress in the country.

The cookbooks are available for sale at all RBC restaurants and outlets and will indeed be a prized collection in any home. Both budding and seasoned chefs will be impressed with the immense work and effort put into these cookbooks. From stunning visuals to the fusion of tastes that will tantalise the appetite, the cookbooks are handy and inspiring cooking companions.

Haji Omar Ali sums up, “While the success of achieving Ingredients the awards have inspired everyone in the team, we at RBC 12 chicken wings, cleaned will continue to innovate throughout all areas of operations 4 tbsp corn oil and create new benchmarks of excellence. New projects, new cookbooks, new innovations – life is always a journey Ingredients A of continuous improvements.” 1-inch piece ginger, minced Royal Brunei Catering’s Collection of Recipes cookbooks are available for sale at The 1 tsp turmeric powder Airport Restaurant, Seasons Restaurant, Dynasty Restaurant and Emperor’s Court. A pinch of salt Some of the popular dishes from Volume 3 include Malay Style Chicken Wings and Salmon Tataki with Horseradish Cream Cheese and Citric Fruit Salad, which are rich in 2 tsp chili paste taste yet easy to prepare.

Text and images courtesy of Royal Brunei Catering. Ingredients B 3 red bird’s eye chili 1-inch piece fresh turmeric, peeled 7 shallots, peeled 5 pips garlic, peeled

Ingredients C 10 gm desiccated coconut* 500 ml coconut milk* 2 tsp tamarind paste* Sugar and salt to taste

Method Marinate chicken wings with ingredients A. Roast at 180ºC until half cooked. Set aside. Blend ingredients B. Set aside. Heat oil in wok. Fry ingredients B until fragrant. Add in ingredients C and slowly cook till it forms into a thick paste. Add in the roast chicken and stir till it coats the chicken. Over a slow fi re, cook until done.

Serves 6

* Available at Asian grocers.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4455 110/21/090/21/09 3:21:593:21:59 PMPM TAKE 5

Sweet chill Fanny Ice Cream If pho is the national dish, then ice cream is the national dessert. Over 600 hotels across the country have Fanny Ice Cream on their menu; making it little wonder why locals go ga-ga over it. Thanks to its delicious creations such as salt caramel, avocado, anise and chocolate chilli, Fanny Ice Cream also hosts monthly ice cream buffets that include non-stop serving of milk shakes and pancakes.

www.fanny.com.vn

Rustic fantastic HOTfor Le Cong Kieu Also known as Antique Street, this is where visitors can stretch the US dollar Uncle Ho’s City while fl exing their bargaining skills. There are all sorts of treasures to be found, from ceramics to pocket watches and It’s offi cially but locals affectionately call hanging lamps to retro luggage. Although it Saigon. Whichever moniker you prefer, HCMC as it’s most may be reproductions, it’s still fun rummaging through the crowded stores also known, remains one of Vietnam’s most vibrant and for things you’d never thought you exhilarating places to discover. needed in the fi rst place.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4466 110/21/090/21/09 3:23:093:23:09 PMPM Haute spot Crazy alleys Park Hyatt Saigon Benh Thanh Market From young Vietnamese hipsters to high Half the fun of going to this market is society ladies, the place to be seen is the getting lost in its many back lanes and Park Lounge. Its elegant fl oor-to-ceiling alleys. Styled like a souk, every road windows and Baby Grand piano provide in the city leads you to Benh Thanh the perfect place to lounge and sip tea. market – a nod to the disarming sense In between nibbling French pastries, of humour of the city’s early planners. enjoy piano recitals by such luminaries as Local souvenirs, fermented duck eggs, Kelda Shulman and Hillary Scott. fashionable fl ip-fl ops and seasonal fruits

www.saigon.park.hyatt.com can all be found here.

French fl air L’Apothiquaire Spa Saigon’s French infl uence is everywhere, but push through this spa’s lavender doors and you get transported to idyllic Provence. One of HCMC’s well- known spas, treatments pay homage to French therapies with natural and organic products. Four locations across the city, but for a full French fl air, the one at District 1 lives up to its promise, housed in a charming 1950 Art deco villa complete with French windows.

www.lapothiquaire.com

Kitschy collectibles Dong Khoi Street Galleries along this street scream out Rooms with views with HCMC artistic talent. From the edgy to the kitsch, sentimental to Sheraton Saigon Hotel collectibles, you will fi nd quirky posters & Towers and portraits for sale. Dogma stocks cute propaganda-poster reproductions There may not be a tower observatory printed on canvas, as well as T-shirts or a gargantuan ferris wheel, but there and greeting cards. are still places to catch a bird’s eye view www.dogmavietnam.com of HCMC’s skyline. The Saigon Bar at Caravelle Hotel lets you lounge high on the 9th fl oor, but Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers’ Level 23 rooftop bar is not only chic, it gives you unobstructed 360 degrees view of the city.

www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton Fashion forward Saigon Centre All things fashion and fashionable can be found here. The city’s sleek new mall has everything from electronics to clothing to handicrafts. Less crowded than the markets, and defi nitely not for bargaining, well-known brands such as Kookai, Bebe and Nine West can also be found here. For local fashion, look for Vo Viet Chung Royal Brunei Airlines fl ights to Ho Chi Minh that makes fabulous ao dai (tunics). City operate three times weekly from Bandar www.asiasongdesign.com/ Seri Begawan.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4477 110/21/090/21/09 3:23:173:23:17 PMPM MOTORING

Mightof the Mercedes

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4488 110/21/090/21/09 3:24:023:24:02 PMPM The fi rst thing you notice in your rear-view mirror is the expanding size of the three-pointed star coming at you on the highway. Your chivalrous side tells you to move in to let it pass. But soon, when the onrushing silhouette gets clear enough for you to realise that you are also driving one – the Mercedes Benz C230 Avantgarde. So you fl ick a switch and step on it and pretty soon, both cars appear to be conjoined twins and are fl ying along at the same pace.

Police speed cameras notwithstanding, a highway cruise in this 2.5-litre, V-6 engined new variant of the compact C-Class Mercedes allows you to enjoy the thrill of power, speed and performance with comfort and smooth handling in one neat package. Switching between a sporty performance and comfortable ride is as easy as pushing a button on the dashboard. But be warned that this `C/S’ button (COMFORT or SPORT) will not activate any afterburner in your exhaust on demand. You will still have to step on the gas to maintain distance.

Engaging one or the other activates the C230’s electrically adjustable shock absorbers and fully independent suspension. Picking one over the other adjusts the damper settings at the press of a button. In SPORTS mode, the hydraulic forces of the shock absorbers are increased to achieve greater handling stability at high speeds and reduce the inherent understeer at speeds up to 120kmph. When driving normally on poor road surfaces, a soft damper setting is selected – with the choice of COMFORT mode – to maximise occupant comfort while maintaining handling stability and safety.

Are you after comfort or sporty dynamism? Abd Razak too is faced with the sweet conundrum of deciding on the virtues of the Mercedes C230 Avantgarde.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 4499 110/21/090/21/09 3:24:123:24:12 PMPM MOTORING

50 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5500 110/21/090/21/09 3:24:153:24:15 PMPM The electronics makes use of seven sensors, From then on there’s a whole host of which monitor driving situations and relay acronyms patented by Mercedes including information to an electronic control unitthat the PRE-SAFE system that takes pre-emptive calculates the optimum shock absorber measures to protect the occupants in certain characteristics. The system adjusts the hazardous situations. NECK-PRO increases damping forces for each individual wheel: protection to the driver’s head and neck. It When driving on poor road surfaces, a soft moves forward and upwards in the event of damper setting is selected but when the a head-on collision. ESP (Electronic Stability road is smoother, a more dynamic setting is Program) monitors driving stability and turned on for a spirited performance. A bit traction. If it detects the vehicle is deviating superfl uous one might say for the C230 is from the direction of travel, one or more indeed a well-behaved car. Shod with 17- wheels are braked to stabilise the vehicle. It inch wheels with 225/45R tyres and slightly helps the driver when pulling away on wet or wider 245/40R 17 at the rear, it sits on the slippery roads and stabilises the car when road like a bull ready to be unleashed. braking. In slippery conditions, ETS (Electronic Traction Support) offers traction control which Naturally aspirated, the V6 engine that enables braking of individual wheels if they develops 204 horsepower with a torque spin. Further braking assistance is available of 245Nm at 2,900-5500 rpm is mated with EBV (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), to Mercedes’ 7G-TRONIC gearbox. The which monitors and controls the brake availability of seven forward gears make pressure on the rear wheels to improve driving it possible to widen the overall spacing stability during braking. between bottom and top gear while at the same time reducing the spacing between The C230 has an intelligent light system one gear and the next. This results in using bi-xenon headlamps. This adjusts the optimum engine speeds at all times with headlamps automatically to suit the prevailing virtually imperceptible gear changes. driving and weather conditions. The bi-xenon Immediate acceleration response comes headlamps offer enhanced functions to from the ability to shift down more than improve illumination of the road surface and one gear at a time – thereby explaining include a cornering light function. This is an how you were able to move out of the way active light function that moves the headlamps of your fi re-breathing brethren barreling according to the steering movements of towards you a moment ago! It can be driven the front wheels. In this way, the relevant up to 233kmph, accelerating from zero to areas remain illuminated allowing the driver 100kmph in 8.6 seconds. to recognise the presence of pedestrians, cyclists and animals while driving. With all that speed on tap, safety issues are addressed with a comprehensive array of So the next time you see a three-pointed star airbags. Front airbags can be supplemented in your rear-view mirror; it’s game on! by driver’s knee airbags, sidebags and windowbags. Additionally, the driver has a variety of switches and controls located on the steering wheel; with F1 inspired shift paddles just behind the main spokes for gear changes.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5511 110/21/090/21/09 3:26:083:26:08 PMPM IN STYLE HIS WORLD Moody Metal Mantle Metallic and monochrome fi nishes instantly transform everyday products to sleek and shiny objects with a brooding, masculine edge to them. Going industrial has never been smoother, or sexier.

Wavy Wonders Stick Art This Royal Selangor zuii Salt & Combining design and function in everlasting Pepper shaker set was created by works of art, the Alessi citrus basket in Marcel Sigel and Alana Di Giacomo, ‘mirror polish’ stainless steel is certainly a the Australian duo behind zuii, conversation piece. Designed by Fratelli Wallpaper magazine’s Best Young Campana, the range also consists of umbrella Designers of 2004. The moody stands and tealight holders. tones of pewter gets a mellifl uous voice from the fl owing form of www.alessi.com the shakers.

www.royalselangor.com

Egg Launcher This quirky Rocket Eggcup from Royal Selangor combines the everlasting elegance of pewterware with the playful and whimsical and, is bound to put a smile on sleepy faces in the morning.

www.royalselangor.com

Accelerated Power The Power Plate® equipment is a vibration device that uses the principles of Acceleration Lens Sense Training™ to stimulate the Stay truly connected with body’s natural response Logitech’s Webcam C600 to vibration. The vibrations that delivers fl uid HD-quality transmit energy waves and video and 8-megapixel promises a host of benefi ts, snapshots, thanks to its 2- ranging from improvement megapixel sensor and glass in blood circulation, lens, allowing you to capture increased muscle strength HD video at up to 720p. and, fl exibility. www.logitech.com www.powerplate.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5522 110/21/090/21/09 3:26:143:26:14 PMPM Power Central Shining Armour The Adamo from Dell is the world’s Named after Sir Walter Scott’s hero, thinnest laptop and boasts a chassis that the Ivan Hoe pen from Caran d’Ache is milled from a single piece of aluminum. exudes chivalry and romanticism. With Intel® Core 2 Duo processors with The middle part of the silver Intel® Centrino® technology and a litany plated brass body is jacketed of other specifi cations, the Adamo is pure in a ‘coat of mail’ of woven style fused with cutting edge technology. stainless steel, while two rhodium-coated double www.adamobydell.com bands mark the upper and lower ends of the jacket. Comes in fountain and roller pen nibs.

www.carandache.ch Surf’s U A customisable touch screen smart phone, the 3G MOTOSURF A3100 from Motorola allows for easy access to the information you need. The touch tablet’s home screen is layered on top of the familiar Windows Mobile 6.1 software and offers many applications that can be accessed with the tip of your fi nger, a stylus, or the built-in omni-directional trackball.

www.motorola.com Acoustic Excellence The Model C Music System from Steinway Lyngdorf comprises a set of speakers, a head unit and two boundary woofers that reproduces a full range Lunar Time of musical genres. Its RoomPerfect™ With fi ve different fi nishes for a technology creates a 3-dimesional map sophisticated dial, the Malte Moon of a room’s sound fi eld and adjusts the Phase & Power-Reserve watch system to overcome spatial infl uences to from Vacheron Constantin deliver a uniform tonal balance. pushes horology to greater heights. The moon-phase display is a blend www.steinwaylyngdorf.com of technology, composed of a disc with a galvanised base and a moon face in 18 karat white gold or pink gold.

www.vacheron-constantin.com

Sharp Shooter Canon’s PowerShot SX200 IS is fi tted with a powerful 12x optical zoom OIS lens that opens up to 28mm for shooting. A retractory pop-up fl ash gives a burst of brilliance from a elevated angle to prevent ‘vignetting’, while 1280 x 720 HD movie recording and HDMI connectivity takes videos seriously.

www.canon.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5533 110/21/090/21/09 3:26:253:26:25 PMPM IN STYLE HER WORLD Wishlist 2009 So many things, so little time! Yet, we’ve managed to suss out stylish, sublime and stunning delectables women would want on their year-end wishlist. Go on. Pick one or just pick all.

Arm Candy What’s not to love about Lancel’s latest bag? The medium shopper strikes a stunning pose in mock crocodile leather straps, while the suede details in sand up the ante on style. Roomy interior makes this a perfect bag and a gorgeous addition to any wish list.

www.lancel.com

Top Greer Whether it’s art and craft, or fashion and design, you’ll love the supplies at Greer Chicago. This paper goods shop stocks everything from invitation cards to notepads, gift wraps to gift tags, decorative papers and more. Hardcover bound, impeccably wrapped in cloth Cuff Enough and tree-free paper, the With clothes so urban and refi ned this season, up the fashion beautiful Elum journals make notch by piling up on bangles. These handmade resin bangles journal writing a pleasure. from Axxezz have feather inlays, while delicate capiz shells fi nish off the look, giving each bangle an exotic edge. www.greerchicago.com www.axxezz.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5544 110/21/090/21/09 3:27:273:27:27 PMPM Magical Masterpieces Masriera, the Spanish design house of distinction with over 200 years of jewellery history, is known for its evocative 19th century Art Nouveau collection. This 18 karat yellow gold ring with brilliant cut diamonds boasts fi red enamel work. Each piece comes individually numbered with a certifi cate of guarantee.

www.masriera.es

Raise the Bar For bar soaps that hold their shape and scent right to the very end, only one brand steps up: Claus Porto. Each Eau Amalfi soap is milled seven times to What began as a signature scent for a prevent splitting or cracking, hotel turned into a coveted collection with a consistent fragrance among those in the know. Eau d’Italie line that lasts three times longer. was concocted by owners Alvarez Murena The soaps are moulded and and Marina Sersale, inspired by their pressed by hand, just as they luxury Hotel Le Sirenuse in Positano, Italy have been when the company to capture romance of the Amalfi Coast. was founded in 1887. Created in 2004, the scent still seduces

www.clausporto.com with its mix of bergamot and incense.

www.eauditalie.com

Planter Box There’s so much to love about Pangea Organics and the new Radiance Gift Set sums it up best. Each set not only packs all the natural and organic skincare goodies you’ll love, but this is a gift within a gift. The box is made from 100 percent post-consumer newsprint without glues or dyes and is embedded with the seeds of the spruce tree. Follow the direction on the label and a spruce tree should spring up in your lawn in mere years.

www.pangeaorganics.com

Sweet Treats Laura Mercier’s whipped Souffl e Body Cremes is scented with the fi nest gourmand notes that are rich with active ingredients to nourish the skin and make it silky smooth. Enjoy the Holiday Bath & Body Collection that consists of Crème de Pistache, Almond Coconut Milk and the signature Crème Brulee – all in a 4-oz size that’s perfect for travel!

www.lauramercier.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5555 110/21/090/21/09 3:27:483:27:48 PMPM IN PERSON CCallall ooff tthehe East Chef, restaurateur, foodie, TV personality, funny man and ‘International Man of Mystery’, Bobby Chinn tells us how he almost ended up a banker, if not for his love affair with food, and how he fi nally settled in Vietnam to pursue his dreams.

Born to a Chinese father and an Egyptian mother, how did these huge polarities in culture and upbringing colour your own appreciation of food? I have been very open to food and learned at a very early age the diversity of it. I was open to eating a lot of dishes that an average baby would not eat. I was eating okra with tomato sauce before I could walk or talk. As a child I appreciated octopus, which freaked out the neighbours. I am not afraid to try something new or different and because of it I am open to experimentation within reason.

Having graduated with a BA in Finance & Economics, why did you end up a chef? Outside of having a lack of interest in greed or pursuing the quest for money and all that it brings, I really did not care about the suit and tie, as it strangled my imagination and I needed to fi nd something different. As far as I was concerned, I could have done close to anything else, but somehow I found passion in food, cooking and the lifestyle that it brought me.

What was the training like and which great chefs inspired you to go the whole nine yards with the food business? You never stop learning; the problem is trying to remember it all! It’s a profession that can leave you very knowledgeable and stupid at the same time, which is very humbling. Many learn French technique, then there is Chinese and Persian and

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5566 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:013:28:01 PMPM understanding of the departure from the original. When the dish can appeal to a native where the key ideas and ingredients come from, then I think it works.

Celebrity chefs have become incredibly famous. What is your take on them? I like to group the celebrity chefs into two groups. There is the celebrity chef who becomes a celebrity for his or her food. These are the ones with the 3-stars, million dollar kitchens and wear Braggard chef- ware. They walk around their kitchens in whites and have a team of people revering or fearing them. They are great in the kitchen and pay immense focus and attention to the fi nest of details, so much so that their food is so serious and everything else is of no consequence. Their interests do not lie in the media or TV, other than to perhaps sell a cookbook penned by them or to promote their food. Otherwise they hate TV and any chef on TV is considered a joke.

Turkish... you name it; it never ends. I have and it’s easy to make. If that isn’t enough, Then there are people like the late Keith always been humbled by the limitation it’s also light and refreshingly healthy. Floyd, Anthony Bourdain, Curtis Stone and of things I knew and could do. I found even Jamie Oliver. It can be formatted TV that by working with really good chefs. What prompted you to move to Hanoi shows with gimmicks and competition, a little I accelerated the learning curve in some to set up your restaurant instead of reality, travel, etc., They are embarrassed to areas while my lack of experience deprived opening the same in the US? call themselves ‘chefs’ as they have great me in others. Well, I got ran out of town in Ho Chi Minh respect for the profession. Unless you can City. Otherwise I would have stayed there. stand in front of fi re, work a full shift, day-in- What I didn’t learn in a kitchen, I picked it I fell in love with the people, the food, day-out, and take responsibility for a station up in a book, or in travel or through simple the culture, and the colourful expatriates or an organisation, it is literally impossible observation. Hubert Keller was a great who came here for some soul searching, to call yourself a chef. These people (myself teacher and has a great culture at Fleur or allowing themselves to try something included) rely on their ability to communicate De Lys in San Francisco. That experience different. I prefer living in a police state with and impart technique and information to a coupled with years at Elka, taught me no guns than a democracy with guns. It’s discerning public. quite a bit, especially working with a chef also easier to ask for forgiveness when you like Traci Des Jardin. I hung out with Gary forgot to get permission. Which cuisines do you think are going Danko, picked his brains and learnt a to explode into the world food scene? lot about the business side. Gravlier in What would we fi nd you eating at Ideally, it should be healthy, sustainable and Bordeaux was also inspirational. I always your own restaurant in Hanoi? tasty. I can see the world moving to eating walk away inspired to raise my bar and Leftovers. more vegetables and demanding a higher to accept new challenges and I think that standard of organic. But then again, you’ll is what every chef does. It is a work in Your TV persona and brand of never know what’s the next big thing. progress and you are only as good as the humour are great attractions in last dish. There is a certain attitude in any themselves, proving that food can Running a restaurant and travelling the good restaurant, and when you work with be fun, gregarious and entertaining globe for the food TV programme, how people like those mentioned here, you and that chefs need not be surly, and when do you fi nd time to relax? cultivate a deep respect for them. overweight men. How did you Relax? I’m too wound up to have such a luxury. cultivate this personality? In my world, I think we refer to it as ‘sleep’. You are not Vietnamese but have Through many years of abuse! become Vietnam’s unoffi cial food Stranded on a deserted island, what ambassador. How did Vietnamese With all manners of fusion and cookbooks would you have in your bag cuisine enamour you? experimental cuisines popping up of absolute essentials? It takes a people and a country to inspire in recent times, how does one learn 1. The Professional Chef by the Culinary me. I think Vietnam’s history speaks for to truly appreciate food and its Institute of America. itself. It’s a country that is proud in its ways, provenance? 2. Food Lovers Companion (not a and festivals and food go hand in hand. You appreciate by understanding the cookbook). The food is sustainable, with clean fl avours, original cuisine that it takes form from. It wonderful contrasting textures and colours does not need many ingredients, but an

Muhibah 57

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5577 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:043:28:04 PMPM BRUNEI BECKONS Abode of Peace Brunei’s beginnings The fi rst thing Antonio Pigafetta would Then the Europeans came. With superior likely to have seen when he arrived in armoury, the Spaniards – and later the Brunei in 1521 was a village built entirely Portuguese, the Dutch and the British on water and boats silently gliding by. – subjugated the natives of the region This was the earliest known mention of and proceeded to impose their form of Kampong Ayer by a European, chronicled governments. by the Italian historian who was part of Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan’s Brunei became a British Protectorate crew. He dubbed it the ‘Venice of the East’. in 1888. The signing of the 1906 Treaty brought in the British Residential System Today, some 500 years on, Kampong and, a British Resident was installed to Ayer retains the image of a tranquil advise the Sultan on all matters, except rural community sitting quietly on stilts those pertaining to the Islamic faith and on the river, albeit with some telltale Malay customs. signs of development, prosperity and modernisation, such as television aerials Nearly a century later, in 1984, with the and satellite dishes. Building materials declaration of independence by His have changed greatly over the years, but Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah the visual appeal of an entire village on Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Brunei became stilts remains undiminished. a sovereign state with a Malay Muslim Monarchic government. Darussalam, the word translated means ‘Abode of Peace’. Brunei’s history dates back some 1,500 years. Empirical evidence shows that as early as the 6th century AD, Brunei was already trading with China; whose traders called the Sultanate Puni or Poli. By the 14th century, the Brunei Sultanate had embraced and was the centre of an archipelagic empire that reached as far south as Indonesia and as far north as The Philippines. This empire lasted well into the .

With Islam, Brunei asserted and expanded its role as an independent and dominant trading power in the region. Its trade and territories grew with the spread of Islam to encompass existing Malay kingdoms in Borneo and the Philippines.

Bunga simpur, Brunei Darussalam’s national fl ower buds are found in abundance at Ulu Temburong National Park.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5588 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:053:28:05 PMPM Brunei today Brunei is arguably best known today as The nation has four districts: Brunei-Muara an oil producing country. Revenue from (which includes the capital Bandar Seri mineral fuels have accounted for over Begawan), Temburong, Tutong and Belait. 95 per cent of Brunei’s export earnings. The main source of its revenue, oil and Such wealth has allowed the government liquifi ed gas, is from the coastal towns of to provide its citizens with free education Seria and Kuala Belait, about 100 kms from and healthcare, and, there is no personal the . income tax. Petroleum revenue also supports a large civil service, which Brunei has a population of over 372,000. employs a substantial percentage of the Two-thirds are of Malay descent, while population. As the country still depends the remainder consists of members of heavily on oil and gas exports, the other ethnic tribes: Chinese and expatriate government has now accelerated efforts workers. to diversify the economy. Malay is the offi cial language, but English Geographically, the Sultanate covers a land is widely spoken. Although Islam is the area of 5,765 sq kms and lies on Borneo’s offi cial religion, people of other faiths have northwestern shore. It is the oldest Malay the freedom to practise their own religions. state in Borneo. Its immediate neighbours include the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the Indonesian province of Kalimantan.

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 5599 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:113:28:11 PMPM BRUNEI BECKONS A Wealth of Diversity Brunei Darussalam is a country rich in culture and heritage. It is a small, peaceful, prosperous kingdom on the northern shore of the ecologically-rich island of Borneo. Come and discover Brunei, a Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures.

In fact, visitors need not leave the city to experience the remarkable rainforest. A natural waterfall and lake set amid Lying just 443 kms north of BRUNEI TOURISM jungle-like environs await visitors the equator, Brunei can be hot at the Tasek Lama Recreational in some months but wet and Park in the heart of the capital. pleasantly cool at other times of For sun worshippers, the the year; so much so that ‘the places to go are Muara Beach wet and the dry’ aptly sums up on the north coast, Pantai Seri Brunei’s two seasons. Blessed Kenangan in Tutong and Tungku with such climatic conditions, Beach along the Muara-Tutong tropical Brunei boasts rugged coastal road. and remote coastlines and unexplored jungles, which are fi ercely protected by an environmentally-conscious

government. And with good BRUNEI TOURISM

BRUNEI TOURISM reason too.

Brunei has the best-preserved rainforest on Borneo island. Covering more than 70 per cent of the nation’s land area, it is so unique that it features heath and peat swamp forests not found in other parts of Borneo. Its untouched jungles are also home to one of the world’s largest population of proboscis monkeys. The diversity of its fl ora and fauna is astounding, such as the strikingly-hued hornbills and the Apart from serving the cause parasitic pitcher plant. And the volume of this diversity is so great that of science, the rainforest even today, scientists from London’s Natural History Museum and the also provides an outlet for Brunei Museum continue to identify and document new species. The recreational activities. Many Royal Geographical Society (UK) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam of the reserves have picnic have also jointly conducted fi eld studies. facilities, with trekking being a favourite pastime among tourists and expatriates. Among the popular reserves are Belalong, where there is a Rainforest Field Studies Centre, Batang Brunei’s main mosques, the Duri, Sungai Basong, Sungai Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien BRUNEI TOURISM Liang, Ulu Mendaram, Wasai Mosque in the capital and the Wong Kadir, Luagan Lalak, newer Jame ’Asr Hassanil Bukit Shahbandar, Anduki Silver Bolkiah Mosque in , are Jubilee Park and the Berakas not only symbols of devotion Forestry Recreation Park. The and sanctuaries for prayer, but national parks are situated architectural wonders as well. in Ulu Temburong and Tasek Not many man-made structures Merimbun. Excursions into in the world can rival the sight Temburong, by jeep or longboat, of the mosque’s golden domes can be arranged. Elsewhere, gleaming against a seamless boat trips on the Belait and tropical sky. Inside and out, Tutong rivers and dinner cruises Islamic artistic expressions on the Brunei River provide a are expressed in astoundingly relaxing way to see the country. intricate details. Clockwise from above: The tranquil waters of Tasek Merimbun; the rich fl ora at Temburong; the opulent environs of The Empire Theatre; the golden dome of the Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan.

60 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6600 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:143:28:14 PMPM Clockwise from right: The kain tenunan, weaved Visitors are welcomed, but cloth with gold threads and chased silverware are Brunei’s are requested to respect the premier handicrafts; the canopy congregation at prayer times. walkway in Temburong; the rich Footwear is not allowed marine life found offshore. inside, while female visitors are For culture and history buffs, requested to dress modestly with the Brunei Museum displays arms, legs and head covered. an impressive collection of bronze and brassware, His Majesty’s offi cial residence Chinese ceramics, jewellery A visit to Brunei would certainly and the seat of government, the and archaeological artefacts. be incomplete without a stroll Istana Nurul Iman, is another The Malay Technology Museum through the wooden alleys of grand building. It is the largest showcases traditional cottage Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s famed residential in the world industries like boat-making, water village on stilts, which is today, stretching more than half a fi shing, gold and silversmith, home to some 30,000 residents. kilometre in length and boasting and house construction. The While the building materials are BRUNEI TOURISM certainly much sturdier now, it still is pretty much what Antonio of other restaurants that offer Pigafetta wrote fi ve centuries Japanese, Indian, Arabic, Italian ago. It certainly is Brunei’s most and of course, local cuisine. remarkable ‘living and breathing’ And then there is the not-to- museum. The greeting be-missed pasar malam, or Assalamualaikum (Peace be night market at the parking lot upon you) and the smell of near Gadong’s wet market. A rendang (a spicy beef or chicken gourmand’s paradise, it is the dish cooked in coconut milk) place to feast on the best home- wafting from the locals’ kitchens cooked food this side of the sum up the Bruneian experience South China Sea. like no other. From its jungles to its urban Food in Brunei mirrors the centres, the wealth of diversity nation’s wealth of cultural truly makes Brunei a Kingdom of diversity. There are international Unexpected Treasures. BRUNEI TOURISM fast-food outlets and a myriad

1,788 rooms. Once a year, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah during Hari Raya Aidilfi tri (Eid-Ul- Islamic Exhibition Gallery Fitr), the Sultan opens the houses His Majesty’s personal to his palace, and with his family, collection of holy manuscripts warmly receive his subjects and and other artefacts from the BRUNEI TOURISM visitors. For the rest of the year, Islamic world. But a real crowd- the palace is best appreciated drawer is the Royal Regalia from the riverside recreation Museum, which displays actual park, Persiaran Damuan at Jalan royal artefacts, including silver Tutong. This kilometre-long and gold ceremonial armoury, park also features a permanent the coronation crown and display of sculptures from various the chariots used during His ASEAN artists. Majesty’s coronation and Silver Jubilee celebrations. Putting Another point of historical all these in perspective is interest is the Tomb of Sultan the original copy of the Bolkiah, Brunei’s fi fth Islamic Brunei Constitution. monarch. It lies within a mausoleum that commemorates A good place to acquire Brunei’s golden age, from the mementos is the Arts and 14th and 16th centuries, when Handicraft Centre where Brunei’s sovereignty covered traditional skills in weaving Borneo, Indonesia and The baskets and kain tenunan Philippines. Nearby, historical (brocades) using gold and silver remains of the old capital of threads are on display. Popular Kota Batu are being continually souvenirs include the keris (an unearthed, providing valuable intricately designed ceremonial information about this ancient dagger), miniature replicas of port city. cannons, boats and gongs.

Muhibah 61

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6611 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:263:28:26 PMPM ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES

Royal Brunei Airlines A Story of Growth With a fl eet of sleek, state-of-the-art and Airbuses carrying the nation’s colours across the globe, the prestigious and award-winning Royal Brunei Airlines has certainly come a long way since a sea-plane was fi rst spotted over Tutong in August 1922. The airline has now become one of the aviation world’s top high-fl yers in the 21st century.

The early days Asia and beyond… Royal Skies, the airline’s popular frequent fl yer After the Second World War, Brunei In the mid-1980s, three extended-range programme, was launched in mid-2003 to Shell launched the regional commercial 757-200s replaced the 737s which boost sales, as well as customer loyalty. Royal aviation operation Percival Prince Services. allowed Royal Brunei to stretch its trans- Skies continues to set itself apart from other Twenty years later, in November 1974 the oceanic reach to Dubai in 1988, London loyalty programmes with its straight forward international airline of the Sultanate of Brunei, in 1990, and Perth in 1991. With this great simplicity and generosity in redeeming rewards. Royal Brunei Airlines, was born and Brunei’s expansion, the airline enriched its gracious aviation growth has been on the up ever brand of hospitality with cabin crew recruited As Royal Brunei continues to make since. Wholly owned by the Government from Brunei’s ASEAN neighbours. convenience a priority for its customers, of Brunei, the airline continues to be the E-Ticketing was launched in 2004 to ensure fl ag carrier for the Sultanate of Brunei As Royal Brunei’s reputation for service greater fl exibility and effi ciency in booking, Darussalam today. excellence grew, the airline added Jeddah ticket issuance and check-in procedures. to its destination list in 1991 and expansion Royal Brunei Airlines started out with just continued into the twenty-fi rst century with Royal Brunei’s ‘food fi t to fl y by’ meal concept two Boeing 737s, one of which was put the addition of Brisbane in 1994, was introduced in to Business Class in 2003. in service for the airline’s fi rst fl ight on 14 in 1997, Auckland in 2003, and Ho Chi Minh Designed by Chef Michel Roux Jr, of the Le May, 1975 from the brand new Brunei City in 2006. Gavroche restaurant in London this unique International Airport to Singapore. Flights to in-fl ight menu features healthier and lighter Hong Kong, and in In 2003, the delivery of two new Airbus meal options. The ‘Dine Upon Request’ meal also started on the same day. 319 aircraft marked the beginning of Royal concept was introduced in November 2005. Brunei’s re-fl eeting programme and two International gourmet meals and refreshments Within its fi rst year of service, Royal Brunei’s Airbus 320s have been added since. are served up until 90 minutes before landing, two -200 jets and its staff of 84 giving long haul Business Class passengers the option of choosing to dine on their desired meal had successfully moved 36,000 passengers First class sky services between Bandar Seri Begawan, Singapore, at a time that suits them. In 2001 Royal Brunei fully entered the cyber Hong Kong, and Kota Kinabalu. sphere with the launch of its Online Booking For maximum in-fl ight comfort, Royal Brunei facility, enabling the airline to reach a wider The following decade saw Royal Brunei introduced SkyDreamer seats in its retro-fi tted audience. BlueSky Fares, the low cost internet expand its regional network with Manila and B767 in 2004. The state of the art, private cabin booking engine facility was added in 2004, in 1976 and 1977 respectively and style ‘podded’ seating includes a personal pull- offering great-value economy class fares to and Jakarta added in 1981 up screen and extends to nearly two metres selected destinations. and 1984. when fully-reclined to provide extra privacy.

62 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6622 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:353:28:35 PMPM Brunei International Airport

Brunei International Airport’s computerised passenger and cargo handling facilities can handle 1.5 million passengers and 50,000 tonnes of cargo a year and the airport is currently being expanded for traffi c growth.

Among the facilities offered at the airport are a prayer room, telephones and internet services, restaurants, a viewing gallery and day rooms for transit passengers who want to rest or freshen up before fl ying.

For customers’ comfort and convenience, Royal Brunei Airlines’ Service Centre and SkyLounge are both located on the departure level. The former is a one In the Economy cabin, re-designed seating now The airline’s engineering department, not stop centre providing services such as offers greater comfort, with adjustable head and only keeps Royal Brunei’s fl eet in top shape, reservations, ticketing and booking of tour foot rests, generous recline, 8.4 inch personal but also provides airframe maintenance, packages. Customers who book online screens showing SkyShow entertainment and technical and materials support services can get their tickets here before departure. award winning meals. to third-party customer airlines. Its base Royal Skies members may also redeem maintenance facilities in Brunei specialises their miles here. Available in both Economy and Business in B767 and and A320 heavy cabins, the centrepiece of Royal Brunei’s infl ight airframe maintenance. For Royal Brunei’s Business Class entertainment system is the exclusive SkyShow, passengers and Royal Skies’ Gold which offers 17 on-demand movie channels, What is more, Royal Brunei has expanded and Silver members, the SkyLounge fi ve short feature broadcast channels, 10 game its corporate family to include subsidiaries boasts plush seating for 120 people. channels, over 200 on-demand audio channels, to supply its operational needs. It is part Complimentary massage chairs, shower and 15 entertainment channels offered in a owner of ABACUS Distribution Systems rooms, ablution areas, and widescreen variety of languages – English, Malay, Mandarin (B) Sdn. Bhd., the global computerised plasma televisions are also available. and . reservations system and is also a major shareholder of the Brunei International Air Duty-free shops offer consumer goods Royal Brunei’s infl ight magazine Muhibah Cargo Centre (BIACC) that handles air at competitive prices. There are several continues to win awards for its informative cargo to and from Brunei. outlets, including a money changer, at the features and superb photography, offering main departure/transit hall. On sale are customers a deeper insight into the destinations Royal Brunei Catering is one of the nation’s portable electrical goods with international they are fl ying to, as well as updates on all most successful restaurant chain operators. warranties, designer goods, perfumes services offered by the airline. To ensure that the meat supply is halal and and confectionery. fresh, it has invested in the Mulaut Abattoir. Beyond the skies… In 1985, Golden Touch Holidays, the tourism Last but not least, another subsidiary is arm of Royal Brunei Airlines was established, Royal Brunei Trading, which oversees the offering holiday packages to the airline’s duty-free shops at the airport. inbound passengers. Today, Golden Touch Holidays can offer the best hotel rates for Looking to the future… all guests in Brunei and across a number of From its small beginnings, Royal Brunei destinations that Royal Brunei fl ies to. Airlines today fl ies to cities across the globe, from Asia, to Europe, and the Middle East to Having appointed one of Brunei’s top Australia and New Zealand. inbound tour operators to manage daily operations, Golden Touch Holidays With a story of such successful and continues to develop innovative and exciting continued growth, expect many more holiday packages, ensuring the exceptional exciting developments in the years to come. and professional delivery of service with every holiday package. More information on Royal Brunei Airlines is available at www.bruneiair.com

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MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6633 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:483:28:48 PMPM ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES Comfort Onboard At Royal Brunei Airlines, your health, safety and comfort is of prime importance to us. For your general well-being onboard our fl ights, we would recommend the basic infl ight exercises.pp

Ankle rotation While seated, raise one foot and draw Shoulder roll a circle with your toes, 12-15 times Relax shoulders, and clockwise, 12-15 times counter- then hunch them clockwise. You can do one foot at a forward. Rotate gently time, or both feet at the same time. 10-12 times.

Knee lift Upper back fl ex Lift and hug your knee to your Stretch hands forward, chest as close as you can. then pull back slowly as Hold for 10-12 seconds. Do far as possible. Repeat the same with the other knee, 10-12 times. alternating 10-12 times.

One health issue that is of primary concern words, anyone who has to remain relatively You may be feeling the onset of DVT if: is the ‘economy class syndrome’, also immobile for prolonged periods is at risk. • you feel tenderness or pain in the known as ‘traveller’s thrombosis’ or ‘deep calf muscles, vein thrombosis (DVT)’. While research on DVT is still inconclusive, • swelling in the leg. You should, however, Royal Brunei Airlines has developed a know that the feet and legs do swell a bit This is a condition where blood collects simple guideline that could minimise the risk particularly during long journeys due to in the feet and legs as a result of sitting and make fl ying with us more comfortable. the accumulation of water because for long periods of time; such as on long of gravity, trips. In rare medical cases, a clot forms Medical warning • the temperature of your leg rises, and/or and blocks a major blood vessel, which You should see a doctor fi rst before booking • the veins right below the leg’s skin dilate. could be fatal. a fl ight if you have any of the following conditions: previous or Exercises It is a misnomer, however, that only family history of DVT, malignancy, presently Airline passengers do not have much room economy class passengers are exposed to undergoing hormone treatment, blood for physical activity. this risk and discomfort. Those in fi rst and disorders, recent trauma to the lower limbs, But exercises to relax the muscles and business class cabins, as well as people a heart condition, varicose veins, improve blood circulation in your legs can in theatres, buses, cars, and even offi ces and are pregnant. be done from the comfort of your own seat. can just as easily develop DVT. In other

Other health tips are diuretics, i.e. substances that make If you have any health condition that The aircraft’s cabin atmosphere at an you visit the lavatory more often, requires special medical attention, for altitude of 10,000 m is pressurised and • avoiding wearing contact lenses. If you example if you need to inject insulin, very dry. You are also travelling from must wear them, be sure to apply eye inform the reservations offi cer so you can one to another. These factors drops regularly, be properly advised of procedures. combined can upset your body’s rhythm. • moisturising your lips and skin often, • eating moderately before and during Royal Brunei Airlines has a notable Thus you can do yourself a favour by: the fl ight, as physical inactivity slows tradition of looking after the safety, health • drinking lots of fl uid during the fl ight, digestion, and and comfort of its passengers. Thank you • avoiding coffee, tea and liquor. These • wear comfortable clothing. for allowing us the pleasure of serving you better.

64 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6644 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:553:28:55 PMPM MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6655 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:573:28:57 PMPM ABOUT ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES DESTINATIONS GUIDE

AUCKLAND (AKL) BRISBANE (BNE) HONG KONG (HKG) Auckland International Airport Brisbane International Airport Chek Lap Kok Airport Airport-City 21 kms Airport-City 22 kms Airport-City 32 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City Approx. Fare from Airport to City Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus NZD15 • Taxi NZD60 • Bus AUD8 • Taxi AUD35 • Taxi Kowloon HKD300, Hong Kong HKD400 Airport Tax NZD25 Airport Tax AUD38 Airport Tax HKD120 Currency New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Currency Australian Dollar (AUD) Currency Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) Language English, Maori Language Cantonese, Mandarin, English Business Hours Business Hours Business Hours • Gov. 8.30am – 5pm weekdays • Government 9am – 4.30pm weekdays • Government 9am – 5pm weekdays • Bank 9.00am – 4.30pm weekdays • Bank 9.30am – 4pm Mon to Thu; 9.30am – 5pm Fri • Bank 9am – 4.30pm weekdays; 9am – 12.30pm Sat GMT +13 GMT +10 GMT +8 Import Duty Free Allowance Import Duty Free Allowance Import Duty Free Allowance • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/250g • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 250 or/250g or/250g • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/250g • Alcoholic Beverages 4.5 litres • Alcoholic Beverages 2.25 litres • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre of wine • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity • Perfume | Eau de toilette Personal use • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity

General Sales Agent RBA OFFICE General Sales Agent WALSHES WORLD 60 Edward Street, Brisbane, Qld 4000. PACIFIC AVIATION MARKETING (HK) LTD Level 9, 52 Swanson Street, Auckland 1001. T: (61) 7 3017 5000 E: [email protected] Rm 2505 Caroline Centre, 28 Yun Ping Road. T: (64) 9 9772 209 E: [email protected] T: (852) 3180 3232, 2869 8608 Business Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm weekdays

DUBAI (DXB) BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (BWN) Dubai International Airport JAKARTA (JKT) Brunei International Airport Airport-City 4 kms Airport-City 8 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi AED20 + 50 fi ls for every 500m Airport-City 50 kms • Bus BND1 • Taxi BND25 Airport Tax AED30 Approx. Fare from Airport to City Airport Tax BND12, BKI: BND5 Currency Dirham (AED) • Bus IDR7,000 • Taxi IDR150,000 Currency Brunei Dollar (BND) Language Arabic, English Airport Tax IDR150,000 Language Malay, Mandarin, Hokkien, English Business Hours Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Business Hours • Government 7.30am-2.30pm Sat to Wed Language Bahasa Indonesia, English • Government 8am – 12.15pm & 1.30 – 4.30pm • Bank 8am-1pm Sat to Thu Business Hours Mon to Thu and Sat GMT +4 • Government 8am – 2pm weekdays • Bank 9am – 3pm weekdays; 9am – 11am Sat Import Duty Free Allowance • Bank 8am – 4pm weekdays GMT +8 • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 2000 or/400 or/2kg GMT +7 Import Duty Free Allowance • Alcoholic Beverages 2 litres (for non- only) Import Duty Free Allowance • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/227g • Perfume | Eau de toilette 150 g/1 litre • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/100g • Alcoholic Beverages 2 litres (for non-Muslims only) • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre • Perfume | Eau de toilette 0.33 litre RBA OFFICE • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity Rais Hassan Saadi Building, RBA OFFICE No 604/605, 6th Floor, Plot 1/1 Maashrat RBA OFFICE RBA Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Al- Baharna, Mankhool Road. World Trade Centre, 11th Flr Bandar Seri Begawan BS 8811. T: (971) 4351 4111 E: [email protected] Jln Jenderal, Sudirman, Kav. 29-31, Jakarta 12920. T: (673) 2212 222, 2240 500 F: (673) 2244 737 T: (62) 21 5211 842-6/784 E: [email protected]

HO CHI MINH CITY (SGN) BANGKOK (BKK) Tan Son Nhat Airport JEDDAH (JED) Airport Airport-City 7 kms King Abdul Aziz International Airport Airport-City 25 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City Airport-City 25 kms (from North Terminal); Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus VND2,000 • Taxi VND50,000 15 kms (from South Terminal) • Bus BHT150 • Taxi BHT200-250 Airport Tax USD14 Approx. Fare from Airport to City Airport Tax BHT700 Currency Vietnam Dong (VND) • Taxi SAR50 Currency Baht (BHT) Language Vietnamese, Mandarin, English, French Airport Tax SAR50 except Haj & Umrah pax, Language Thai, English Business Hours diplomats and escorts for human remains Business Hours • Government 7.30am – 11.30am & Currency Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) • Government 8.30am – 4.30pm weekdays 1pm – 4.30pm weekdays Language Arabic, English, French • Bank 8.30am – 3.30 pm weekdays • Bank 7.30am – 11.30am & 1pm – 4.30pm weekdays Business Hours GMT +7 GMT +7 • Government 7am-3pm Sat to Wed Import Duty Free Allowance Import Duty Free Allowance • Bank 9am-1.30pm & 5pm-7pm Sat to Wed; • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/250 or/250g • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 400 or/100 or/500g 9am-2pm Thu • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre • Alcoholic Beverages 1.5 litres GMT +3 • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity • Perfume | Eau de toilette Personal use Import Duty Free Allowance • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 600 or/100 or/500g RBA OFFICE General Sales Agent • Alcoholic Beverages Prohibited 968, U Chu Liang Building, 17th Floor, WORLDWIDE AGENCY CO. LTD. • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity Rama IV Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500. Fidi Tour Building, 4th fl oor, T: (66) 2 6375 151 E: [email protected] 127-129-129A Nguyen Hue Street, Dist. 1 General Sales Agent T: (84) 8 3914 6868 F: (84) 8 3915 2265 ELAF AVIATION Al Nakheel Centre, Madina Road, Jeddah 21414 Kingdom of T: (9662) 6657143 / 6612679 / 6657908 E: [email protected]

66 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6666 110/21/090/21/09 3:28:583:28:58 PMPM KOTA KINABALU (BKI) LONDON (LHR) SINGAPORE (SIN) Kota Kinabalu International Airport Changi International Airport Airport-City 8.5 kms Airport-City 35 kms Airport-City 20 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City Approx. Fare from Airport to City Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi MYR13.50 • Bus GBP7 • Taxi GBP40 • Bus SGD1.40 • Taxi SGD18 Airport Tax MYR26 To/Transit via Brunei: MYR20 Airport Tax F & J Class Pax: GBP80; Airport Tax SGD21 Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) Y Class Pax: GBP40; PSC: GBP9 Currency Singapore Dollar (SGD) Language Malay, Mandarin, English Currency Pound Sterling (GBP) Language Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil Business Hours Language English Business Hours • Government 8am – 4.30pm Mon to Thu; Business Hours • Government 8.30am – 5pm weekdays, 8am – 11.30am & 2pm – 4.30pm Fri; • Government 9am – 5pm weekdays 8.30am – 1.00pm Sat closed on every 1st & 3rd Sat of the month • Bank 9.30am – 3.30pm weekdays • Bank 10am – 3pm weekdays; 9.30am – 11.30am Sat • Bank 9.30am – 3.30pm weekdays; GMT +0 GMT +8 9.30am – 11.30am Sat; closed on every Import Duty Free Allowance Import Duty Free Allowance 1st & 3rd Sat of the month • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/250g • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco Nil GMT +8 • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre Import Duty Free Allowance • Perfume | Eau de toilette 50 g/0.25 litre • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/225g • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre RBA OFFICE RBA OFFICE • Perfume | Eau de toilette Value of up to total MYR200 49 Cromwell Road, London SW7 2ED, 81 Clemenceau Avenue, #03-11/12/13 England, United Kingdom. UE Square Shopping Mall, Singapore 239917. RBA OFFICE T: (44) 207 584 6660 E: [email protected] T: (65) 6235 4672 E: [email protected] Lot BG - 3B Ground Floor, Block B, Komplex KWSP, Jalan Karamunsing, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. T: (60) 88 242 193/6 E: [email protected] MANILA (MNL) SURABAYA (SUB) Ninoy Aquino International Airport Juanda International Airport Airport-City 9 kms Airport-City 17 kms KUALA LUMPUR (KUL) Approx. Fare from Airport to City Approx. Fare from Airport to City Kuala Lumpur International Airport • Bus PhP13 • Taxi PhP120 • Taxi IDR29,500 Airport-City 80 kms Airport Tax PhP750 Airport Tax IDR150,000 Approx. Fare from Airport to City Currency Philippine Peso (PhP) Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) • Bus Luxury RM25 Language Tagalog, English Language Bahasa Indonesia, English, Madurese • Taxi Budget MYR70-80, Limo MYR100-120 Business Hours Business Hours Airport Tax MYR51 • Government 8am – 5pm weekdays • Government 7am – 2pm Mon to Thu; Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) • Bank 9am – 3pm weekdays 7am – 12 noon Fri; 7am – 1pm Sat Language Malay, English, Cantonese, Tamil, Mandarin GMT +8 • Bank 8am – 3.30 pm Mon to Fri Business Hours Import Duty Free Allowance GMT +7 • Government 8am – 4.30pm Mon to Thu; • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 400 or/50 or/250g Import Duty Free Allowance 8am – 11.30am & 2pm – 4.30pm Fri; closed on every • Alcoholic Beverages 2 bottles • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/100g 1st & 3rd Sat of the month • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre • Bank 9.30am – 3.30pm weekdays; 9.30am – 11.30am • Perfume | Eau de toilette Reasonable quantity Sat; closed on every 1st & 3rd Sat of the month General Sales Agent GMT +8 GLOBAL AIR SERVICES CORPORATION General Sales Agent Import Duty Free Allowance G/F SGV II Bldg, 6758 Ayala Ave, Makati City, PT. SURYA NAYAGATAMA • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/225g The Philippines 1200. Plaza BRI, 6th Floor Suite 611 • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre T: (632) 864-0801 to 05 F: (632) 891-0435 Jl. Jend. Basuki Rachmat No.122, Surabaya 60271. • Perfume | Eau de toilette Value of up to total MYR200 E: [email protected] T: (62) 31548 1819 E: [email protected]

RBA OFFICE Lot 25, 1st Floor, UBN Tower (Shangri-la Shopping Arcade), P.O. Box 99, Jln P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur. T: (603) 2070 7166, 2070 6628 F: (603) 2070 6899 PERTH (PER) E: [email protected] Perth International Airport Airport-City 15 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus AUD11 • Taxi AUD30 KUCHING (KCH) Airport Tax AUD38 Currency Australian Dollar (AUD) Kuching International Airport Language English Airport-City 11 kms Business Hours Airport Tax MYR26 • Government 9am – 5pm weekdays Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) • Bank 9.30am – 4pm Mon to Thu; 9.30am – 5pm Fri Language Malay, English, Mandarin GMT +8 Business Hours Import Duty Free Allowance • Government 8am – 4.30pm Mon to Thu; • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 250 or/250g or/250g 8am – 11.30am & 2pm – 4.30pm Fri; • Alcoholic Beverages 2.25 litres closed on every 1st & 3rd Sat of the month • Perfume | Eau de toilette Personal use • Bank 9.30am – 3.30pm weekdays; 9.30am – 11.30am Sat; closed on every 1st & 3rd Sat of the month RBA OFFICE GMT +8 Level 6, London House 216 St Georges Terrace, Import Duty Free Allowance Perth, WA 6000. • Cigarettes | Cigars | Tobacco 200 or/50 or/225g T: (61) 8 9321 8757 E: [email protected] • Alcoholic Beverages 1 litre • Perfume | Eau de toilette Value of up to total MYR200

RBA OFFICE L2L 10, Level 2, Kuching International Airport P.O.Box 1070, 93722 Kuching, Sarawak T: (60) 82 453 422 / 456 422 E: [email protected]

Muhibah 67

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6677 110/21/090/21/09 3:29:023:29:02 PMPM REGULARS

TRAVELLER’S GUIDE Brunei Visitor Information

Visas Austrian, German, Malaysian, Singaporean, Language Malay is the offi cial language but English Food For the adventurous, the food stalls offer British nationals with the right of abode in the United is widely used. Other languages include Chinese and Malay favourites, such as satay (barbecued meat on Kingdom, The Netherlands and New Zealand its dialect variants and other indigenous dialects. a skewer) and local dishes prepared with curry or nationals are exempted from the requirement to Although the offi cial religion is Islam, other faiths coconut milk. Chinese, European and Indian cuisines obtain a visa for visits not exceeding 30 days. including and Buddhism are practised. are also available. American passport holders can enter Brunei Darussalam for three months without visas. For Clothing Light clothing is advisable as the climate is Hotels Accommodation in the capital ranges from nationals of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, generally warm and humid. Women are requested to international standard to middle range hotels. Service Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Republic of dress modestly in keeping with local customs. apartments are also available at reasonable rates. , Norway, , The Philippines, , Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand and Health Doctors provide private medical services for Shopping Department stores and shops offer The Principality of Liechtenstein — visas are waived a nominal charge. There are a number of state health goods ranging from cosmetics and stereos to local for 14-day visits. Nationals of Australia are issued clinics and hospitals. handicrafts such as the keris (an ornamental dagger), visas on arrival at the Brunei International Airport for miniature brass cannons, and kain tenunan, a cloth visits not exceeding 30 days. Credit cards Hotels, department stores and woven with gold or silver threads. other major establishments generally accept all All other visitors entering Brunei Darussalam must internationally known credit cards. Festivals and celebrations National Day, 23 have visas obtainable from any Brunei Darussalam February, Hari Raya, the end of the Muslim fasting diplomatic mission abroad. These visas are normally Tipping Optional. Some hotels add a 10 per cent month, and His Majesty The Sultan’s birthday, July issued for a two-week stay but can be renewed service charge to their room rates. 15. Other public holidays include Chinese Lunar New in Brunei. Visitors must hold onward tickets and Year and Christmas. suffi cient funds to support themselves while in Telephones Overseas calls can be made from hotel the country. rooms through the operator, or via international Customs and courtesy direct dialling (IDD). There are also coin and • Thoughtful visitors learn to appreciate the nation’s N.B. For more details, please contact your nearest phonecard operated public telephones. devotion to Islam. In mosques, visitors should Brunei Embassy or diplomatic representative. remove their shoes and should not pass in front Utilities Power supply is 220 - 240 volts, 50 of people at prayer. Never touch the Al-Quran. A Duty-free goods Passengers will not be charged cycles. The PAL and NTSC systems are used by woman should ensure that her head, knees and duty for carrying up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, local television. Tap water is generally safe to drink arms are covered before entering mosques. Robes or 227 grammes of tobacco; two bottles of liquor although some take the precaution of boiling it. are provided at the entrance to the mosque. plus 12 cans of beer (only for non-Muslims); and a reasonable quantity of perfumes. Media Radio Television Brunei has nightly news • A Bruneian shakes hands lightly and brings his bulletins and a range of popular entertainment in both hands to his chest. Members of the opposite sex Transportation The airport is about 11 kms from the English and Malay. Cable network and Malaysian do not shake hands. capital. Taxis, car rentals and buses are available. television programmes can also be received. There are • It is impolite to point with the index fi nger (use three local daily newspapers namely: Borneo Bulletin the right thumb instead) or to beckon someone Currency The Brunei dollar is on a par with the (English), The Brunei Times (English) and Media with fi ngers and palm facing upwards. Instead the Singapore dollar, which is also accepted in Brunei. Permata (Malay). Other regional and international whole hand should Banks, hotels and many department stores will cash publications are also available at newstands. be waved with palm facing downwards. The right traveller’s cheques. fi st should never be smacked into the left palm. • Gifts, particularly food, are passed with the right hand. When sitting, the sole of your feet should not be pointed towards your companions.

ADVICE Bruneians Travelling Abroad If Brunei citizens encounter problems while • Ascertain and comply with the health regulations • Refuse to accept packages for inclusion in travelling abroad, help can be sought from the High of the countries you are visiting. your luggage from strangers. As a minimum Commissions or Embassies of Brunei Darussalam. • Remember that most countries punish narcotics precaution, the contents of the package should be offenders with heavy fi nes, imprisonment or thoroughly examined because it may contain illegal Many problems can be avoided by careful even death. substances. If in any doubt, politely refuse. preparation prior to departure and by ensuring • Avoid carrying unnecessary jewellery and other • Always allow plenty of time for your journey to the compliance with the laws of the countries visited. airport, especially in countries which are prone to Before leaving Brunei Darussalam: valuables. If you must take valuable items, be very careful how you use or wear them. Always store traffi c jams. Arriving late to fi nd the airport check- • Ensure that you have a return ticket or, if this is them safely when not in use. Most hotels have in desk closed causes ill feeling, and you will miss not possible, set aside suffi cient funds to buy a safe deposit boxes. your fl ight. return ticket. • Find out if the country you are visiting limits • When you reach your destination call the • Reserve money to cover emergencies including (or bans) the importation, sale or use of liquor appropriate airline or travel agent as soon as the possibility that you may need to pay the – ensuring that you comply with those regulations. possible to reconfi rm your onward or return airline to carry baggage in excess of your weight fl ight booking. allowance. • Check out the laws applying to the importation of farm produce (or items containing farm produce), The safety and well-being of any traveller is largely his • Buy travel insurance, especially if you are travelling as well as live or dead plants and animals to distant countries. or her responsibility. Most problems can be avoided (including items made from or containing elements by ascertaining the regulations applying to each • Ensure that your passport is valid. derived from plants or animals) of the country you country being visited and planning well in advance to • Ascertain the visa requirements of the countries are visiting. A written consent may be needed to ensure that you comply with those requirements. you are visiting and comply with those import these items. Information can be obtained requirements. Information can be obtained from from the embassy or high commission of the the appropriate embassy or high commission in country concerned. Brunei Darussalam or from your travel agent.

68 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6688 110/21/090/21/09 3:29:033:29:03 PMPM Muslim Prayer Times in Brunei Darussalam

Zulqaedah 1430 / Zulhijjah 1430 November 2009

Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Hijriah 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Day Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon

Imsak 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.37 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.41 4.41 Subuh 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.51 4.51 Syuruk 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.07 6.07 6.07 6.07 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.10 6.10 6.10 6.11 6.11 6.12 6.12 6.12 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.31 6.31 6.31 6.31 6.32 6.32 6.32 6.33 6.33 6.33 6.34 6.34 6.34 6.35 6.35 6.36 6.36 6.37 6.37 6.37 Zohor 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.09 12.09 12.09 12.10 12.10 12.10 Asar 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.26 3.27 3.27 3.27 3.27 3.27 3.28 3.28 3.28 3.28 3.28 3.29 3.29 3.29 3.30 3.30 3.30 3.30 3.31 3.31 3.31 3.32 3.32 Maghrib 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.02 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.05 6.05 6.05 Isyak 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.14 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.16 7.16 7.16 7.16 7.17 7.17 7.17 7.18 7.18 7.18 7.19 7.19

Zulhijjah 1430 / Muharam 1431 December 2009

Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Hijriah 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Day Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu

Imsak 4.41 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.44 4.44 4.45 4.45 4.46 4.46 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.48 4.48 4.49 4.49 4.50 4.50 4.51 4.51 4.52 4.52 4.53 4.53 4.54 4.54 4.55 Subuh 4.51 4.52 4.52 4.52 4.53 4.53 4.53 4.54 4.54 4.55 4.55 4.56 4.56 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.58 4.58 4.59 4.59 5.00 5.00 5.01 5.01 5.02 5.02 5.03 5.03 5.04 5.04 5.05 Syuruk 6.13 6.13 6.14 6.14 6.15 6.15 6.16 6.16 6.17 6.17 6.18 6.18 6.19 6.19 6.20 6.20 6.21 6.21 6.22 6.22 6.23 6.23 6.24 6.24 6.25 6.25 6.25 6.26 6.26 6.27 6.27 Doha 6.38 6.38 6.39 6.39 6.40 6.40 6.41 6.41 6.42 6.42 6.43 6.43 6.44 6.44 6.45 6.45 6.46 6.46 6.47 6.47 6.48 6.48 6.49 6.49 6.50 6.50 6.51 6.51 6.52 6.52 6.53 Zohor 12.11 12.11 12.11 12.12 12.12 12.13 12.13 12.14 12.14 12.14 12.15 12.15 12.16 12.16 12.17 12.17 12.18 12.18 12.19 12.19 12.20 12.20 12.21 12.21 12.22 12.22 12.23 12.23 12.24 12.24 12.25 Asar 3.33 3.33 3.33 3.34 3.34 3.35 3.35 3.35 3.36 3.36 3.37 3.37 3.38 3.38 3.39 3.39 3.40 3.40 3.41 3.41 3.42 3.42 3.43 3.43 3.44 3.44 3.45 3.45 3.46 3.46 3.46 Maghrib 6.05 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.07 6.07 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.09 6.09 6.10 6.10 6.10 6.11 6.11 6.12 6.12 6.13 6.13 6.14 6.14 6.15 6.15 6.16 6.16 6.17 6.17 6.18 6.18 6.19 Isyak 7.19 7.20 7.20 7.21 7.21 7.22 7.22 7.22 7.23 7.23 7.24 7.24 7.25 7.25 7.26 7.26 7.27 7.27 7.28 7.28 7.29 7.29 7.30 7.30 7.31 7.31 7.32 7.32 7.33 7.33 7.34

Muhibah 69

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 6699 110/21/090/21/09 3:29:093:29:09 PMPM REGULARS TRAVEL DIARY A world of adventure and new experiences awaits you when you fl y with Royal Brunei Airlines. Make your trip even more memorable with free fl ights, seat BRUNEI DARUSSALAM upgrades and other privileges when you Hari Raya Aidil Adha become a member of Royal Skies, our 27 November, 2009 (date subject to change due to lunar calendar) frequent fl yer programme. Celebrated during the last month of the Muslim calendar, Aidil Adha commemorates the sacrifi ce undertaken by Prophet Abraham. Also called Hari Raya Korban, Muslims immerse themselves in spirituality and engage in charitable activities by donating meat to the poor specially for the festival. The festival is also known as Hari Raya Haji as Muslims the world over fulfi ll the Hajj, one of the tenet’s of Islam that requires Muslims to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

www.tourismbrunei.com

MALAYSIA Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition 2009 1 – 5 December, 2009 THAILAND Since its inception in 1991, LIMA has become the premier Thailand International Motor Expo 2009 destination for manufactures to promote the latest developments and innovations in the aerospace and 2 – 13 December, 2009 maritime industries, targeting the Asia Pacifi c markets in defence, enforcement and civil sectors. With over 450 “Driving… for Sustainability” is the unique proposition put forward exhibitors from 24 countries and displays that exceed by the 26th Thailand International Motor Expo 2009 in light of the 70 vessels and 80 aircraft, LIMA not only allows industry global economic turmoil faced by the automobile industry in the players to clinch deals and peek into the next wave of past months. Hoping to rejuvenate the industry and recreate the technology, it also enables the general public to appreciate excitement and sales, this expo will bring together some of the the technology of these aircraft and vessels. most renowned and recognisable automobile brands alongside

www.lima2009.com.my new and upcoming names. www.motorexpo.co.th

70 Muhibah

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 7700 110/21/090/21/09 3:29:143:29:14 PMPM UNITED KINGDOM SCOTLAND Angels of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Anarchy: Late December 2009 till early January 2010 Women Artists and Surrealism November 2009 – 10 January, 2010

The fi rst major exhibition of women artists and Surrealism to be held in Europe, Angels of Anarchy features over 100 artworks by 33 Recognised all over the world as the place to herald in the New Year, women artists like Frida Kahlo, Meret Oppenheim, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay offers a diverse and vibrant celebration to over 100,000 Leonora Carrington and Lee Miller. The exhibition at partygoers from around the world. ‘Hogmanay’ is the Scots word for the the Manchester Art Gallery includes a selection of last day of the year and is synonymous with the celebration of the New Year. photographs of women artists by Lee Miller and Dora However, the city gets into the swing of things early with a variety of events Maar, and a series of androgynous and theatrical leading up to the biggest New Year’s eve party ever. Highlights include the self-portraits by Claude Cahun. The exhibition also Torchlit Procession and Fire Festival, and the Night Afore International, a blend presents a selection of ephemera such as poetry, of entertainment that features the world’s biggest ceilidh. books, photographs, letters and cards to illustrate www.edinburghshogmanay.org the fascinating relationships between many of these Surrealist artists. AUSTRALIA www.manchestergalleries.org Sydney’s Banana Boat Bondi to Bronte Ocean Swim 6 December, 2009

The annual Bondi to Bronte Ocean Swim takes a course between the fi rst two Surf Life Saving Clubs in the world. Starting at the Bondi Rescue Lifeguard tower at Bondi Beach, swimmers head south around McKenzie’s point and continue down the coast into Bronte Beach, a distance of 2.1 to 2.4kms. Attracting swimmers from all over the world, the event welcomes all age groups categories ranging from 12 year olds through to 65+, including the new fl ippers, fi ns, wetsuits and fl oaties group for those who want a little help around the course.

www.bonditobronte.com.au

SINGAPORE HONG KONG Beauty & the Beast Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games 25 November – 19 December, 2009 5 – 13 December, 2009 The folks at W!ld Rice are offering yet another modern installment on this all-time favourite The 5th Hong Kong East Asian Games fairy tale. Staged at the Drama Centre Theatre celebrates sporting excellence in over 262 @ National Library Building, the tale unfolds competition events under 22 sports. Held with Big Boss Bong living with his three girls, once every four years, the event brings Brandy, Desiree and his youngest, Beauty. together athletes from China, Chinese Beauty later ends up in Beast’s mansion where Taipeh, , Japan, , Guam, she encounters peculiar characters such as the , South Korea and Hong Kong nanny, Ah Ma Chow Chow, the excitable cook and is touted as an event that celebrates Baba Pongteh, and the sarcastic maid, Vacula commonality and kinship of East Asia. Contessa. A real crowd pleaser, this pantomime This year’s slogan is ‘Be the Legend’ and musical comedy promises to be the most over- the mascots, Doni and Ami, are artistic the-top, riotous and colourful staging yet. representation of a lion and fi re.

www.wildrice.com.sg www.2009eastasiangames.hk

Muhibah 71

MMuhibah_Nov/Dec09.indduhibah_Nov/Dec09.indd 7711 110/21/090/21/09 3:29:223:29:22 PMPM MIND TEASERS Crossword Puzzle Across Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 1 German submarine 1 Salt Lake City athlete 6 Lathered up 2 Anaconda 14 15 16 11 Cookin g container 3 Assn. 14 Japanese gateway 4 Atmosphere 15 Inuit dwelling 5 Set in layers 17 18 19 16 Bambi’s aunt 6 Absurd 17 Large wave caused by tidal fl ow 7 Arch type 18 Get to know 8 Exclamation to express sorrow 20 21 22 23 19 Hi-______monitor 9 ______favor 20 Actor’s parts 10 Over there 22 Failed to 11 Lost in Paris? 24 25 26 27 28 24 Food store 12 Upright 28 Make bare 13 Flavor 29 30 31 29 Cure 21 Large African antelope 30 Opposite astarboard 23 Concern 32 Fall birthstone 24 Moan 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 33 Three-masted ship of the 25 Dupe Mediterranean 26 native 35 Canadian gas brand 27 Cultivar of an edible stem 39 40 41 39 “Rule Britannia” composer 28 ER VIP 40 Bill’s partner 30 Close to 41 Spoils 31 Drudge 42 43 44 45 42 Film ______34 Mimic 43 Divert 36 A bit, colloquially 46 47 48 49 45 Switch ending 37 European ermine 46 Gold bar 38 ______Mio 48 Position, in Britain 43 Cpl.’s superior 50 51 52 53 50 Expert 44 Bloodsucking parasitic arachnid 53 See-through material 47 Sisters’ daughters 54 Cost 49 Approached 54 55 56 55 Sweet spongy yeast cake 50 Month of showers 57 Fam. reunion attendee 51 Hives 57 58 59 60 6162 63 64 58 Magna ______52 Rasping instruments 60 Thorny fl owers 53 Become less intense, die off 65 Chemical ending 55 Vigor 65 66 67 66 Marner’s creator 56 On 67 Lauder of cosmetics 59 Cockpit abbr. 68 Acapulco article 61 Sugar suffi x 68 69 70 69 Mine excavation 62 ______-Foy, Quebec 70 Caterpillar rival 63 Alway 64 Date Sudoku Toon Time 1. What is Mickey Mouse’s shoe colour? 5 7 2. What is Bart Simpson’s dog’s name? 3. In South Park, which character dies every time? 4 8 4. In Who Framed Roger Rabbit, who provided the voice for Jessica Rabbit? 5. In Thundercats, what was Mumm-Ra’s greatest weakness? 6 9 516. What creature is Spongebob Squarepant’s best friend Patrick? 7. “Turtles fi ght with power!” was the battle cry for which toons? 879 8. The song Hakuna Matata was featured in which Disney movie? 9. Name the fat, orange cat with an acerbic tongue and was always hungry.

167210. What relationship do Cow and Chicken share?

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Answers

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72 Muhibah

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